3 arrested after Portland protest turns violent at federal ICE building

Multiple rioters in Portland, Oregon, were arrested on Saturday night following planned protests that turned violent near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, resulting in four officers being injured.

The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) stated in a press release early Sunday that three individuals were arrested after officers responded to “criminal activity” near the federal building in the South Portland Neighborhood. The arrests were made in connection with criminal actions, not constitutionally protected free speech. PPB emphasized that individuals engaged in violent activity or property destruction would be investigated and subject to arrest and prosecution.

The riot erupted after the city hosted a “No Kings” protest earlier in the day, described as a large-scale free speech gathering with tens of thousands of participants marching in demonstration.

Police were called to the federal facility just before 6 p.m. after reports of a federal officer being injured by the crowd. PPB informed the crowd that a medical event had occurred within the ICE facility and cautioned against interfering with medical response efforts. Subsequently, it was determined that the federal officer did not require medical treatment.

Following the incident, PPB declared a riot due to ongoing criminal activity in the area. Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin reported that a mob had launched fireworks, smoke grenades, and rocks at federal law enforcement while breaking glass and forcibly entering the ICE facility. Four officers sustained injuries during the attack, but federal law enforcement managed to secure the facility.

Sabian Crisantos, 25, was arrested for attempted assault of a public safety officer around 8 p.m. Tyson Kahnert, 20, was apprehended at approximately 10:50 p.m. after being observed throwing a rock at the ICE building. Kahnert faced charges including first-degree criminal mischief, attempted assault of a public safety officer, harassment, interfering with a peace officer, and escape in the third degree. Cory Oien, 38, was taken into custody around 1 a.m. for first-degree theft and driving under the influence of intoxicants after he was seen picking up traffic control devices and placing them in his truck.

All three individuals were booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center, with the possibility of additional arrests as investigations continue.

PPB emphasized that individuals involved in criminal activities during the protest would be held accountable, even if arrests were not made at the scene. The authorities urged the public to refrain from engaging in violent behavior and respect the rule of law during protests.

As the situation unfolds, it is essential for law enforcement to maintain order and ensure the safety of both officers and civilians. The incident in Portland serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding peaceful demonstrations while condemning acts of violence and property destruction.