Federal authorities used non-lethal force, including tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades, to break up a protest outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in southwest Portland on June 18, officials and video footage show .
According to the Department of Homeland Security, roughly 250 demonstrators attempted to block access to the facility, throwing fireworks and shining laser beams at agents in riot gear. Videos from the scene depict agents launching crowd-control munitions from elevated positions to disperse the crowd after protesters breached a glass entrance.
The Portland Police Bureau later declared the situation a riot, and at least three people were arrested by local police for offenses including assault and trespassing. DHS stated federal charges are being pursued against those who assaulted law enforcement or obstructed agents — with five arrests reported in total.
This confrontation follows a series of “No Kings” protests across major U.S. cities, including Portland, earlier on June 14, which primarily focused on immigration and federal authority. While these daytime marches were largely peaceful, the evening sessions near the ICE site turned confrontational.
Portland officials have worked in recent years to limit tear gas usage following extensive unrest during 2020 social justice protests. However, federal enforcement remains separate, focusing on protecting federal property and personnel.
What Officials Are Saying
- DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin: “250 rioters launched fireworks, shined lasers … assaulted federal officers. Ultimately, five individuals were arrested … We won’t sit idly by.”
- Portland Police: Confirmed three local arrests, stressing that some charges are filed after the fact based on video and criminal complaints .
