James Carlson, also known as Cody Carlson, is a wealthy agitator and participant in the recent Columbia University riots. He comes from a privileged background, being the child of millionaire ad executives, Richard “Dick” Tarlow and Sandy Carlson Tarlow. His father, who passed away in 2022, had an estate worth at least $20 million and was known for his work with well-known brands. His mother was also successful in her own right, defining the public face of Ralph Lauren and selling her namesake firm for a significant amount before her death in 2003. Carlson’s stepmother, Kristin Kehrberg, now resides in a Fifth Avenue mansion and is reportedly dating John Cougar Mellencamp.
Carlson, 40, recently purchased a $3.4 million Brooklyn brownstone in Park Slope, complete with four wood-burning fireplaces and a carriage house. He is the father of at least two children, including one with model Kim Heyrman. Despite his wealthy upbringing, Carlson has a history of arrests dating back to 2005 and is known for his radical activism. He has been identified as a potential leader of the anti-Israel protesters who recently broke into Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall and barricaded themselves inside, resulting in his arrest on charges of burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, conspiracy, criminal trespassing, and hate crimes.
In addition to the recent incident at Columbia University, Carlson has been involved in other protests and riots in the past. He was a participant in violent demonstrations in San Francisco in 2005, where he was charged with offenses such as attempted lynching, battery to a police officer, and assault with a deadly weapon. While these charges were ultimately dropped in 2007, Carlson’s history of radical activism has continued, with further involvement in disruptive protests in New York City, including blocking traffic at the Holland Tunnel and various bridges.
Despite his family’s success and wealth, Carlson’s behavior and beliefs have alienated him from his relatives, who have refused to discuss him. His sister’s home refused to comment on him and stated that he has been out of their lives for many years. Carlson’s recent arrest at Columbia University has brought more attention to his background and previous actions, drawing criticism for his involvement in violent protests and destruction of property. Despite the charges against him, Carlson has not made any public statements or responses to the allegations against him.
Overall, James Carlson’s involvement in the recent unrest at Columbia University sheds light on the complex nature of activism and protest movements, especially when combined with wealth and privilege. As a professional agitator and wealthy individual, Carlson’s actions have raised questions about the motivations behind his radical activism and the impact it has on public safety and order. The recent incidents at Columbia University and other protests highlight the ongoing tensions between law enforcement, protesters, and the broader community, with individuals like Carlson serving as key figures in these actions. As Carlson’s story continues to unfold, it prompts further discussion about the role of privilege, wealth, and radical activism in contemporary society.
