Ohio State professor Luke Perez and his attorney Steven Palmer attend Perez’s preliminary hearing Monday morning at the Franklin County Municipal Court in Columbus, Ohio. Credit: Sandra Fu | Managing Photo Editor Ohio State Assistant Professor Luke Perez pleaded not guilty to assault in court Monday morning. Next, the case will move forward into a trial. During his arraignment, Perez was released on the condition that he does not contact Michael Newman, the victim, who appeared in court.