No Kings Protests Result in Numerous Arrests
At least 34 individuals were detained during the “No Kings” protests held across the U.S. this past Saturday, facing charges that included making terrorist threats and assault, according to various reports.
Millions took to the streets in major cities to voice their discontent with President Donald Trump and his administration. The protests were, for the most part, peaceful, though many incidents of violence erupted near Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, which have been focal points of unrest for some time now.
A notable incident involved David Cox, who was arrested for making terroristic threats after allegedly stating his intent to shoot ICE officers during the protests, as reported by ABC 7 News.
In Portland, Oregon, three people were arrested outside an ICE facility, a known hotspot for anti-ICE demonstrations. This brings the total protest-related arrests in the area since June to over 50, according to a statement from the Portland Police Department. One man was charged with assault after allegedly injuring a female protester, while two women were arrested following a confrontation that involved anti-transgender remarks.
In Broadview, Illinois, 15 people were arrested near an ICE facility after they reportedly ignored dispersal orders. The Chicago Sun-Times noted that charges included several counts of resisting arrest, disobeying police officers, and disorderly conduct.
Los Angeles police mentioned that at least one arrest occurred after approximately 100 individuals used lasers against officers. However, video evidence indicated that several more people were taken into custody during the event, with some being loaded onto buses.
In Denver, several people were arrested when police declared a march an unlawful assembly, especially as protesters attempted to enter the interstate. By nightfall, 13 individuals were arrested on a variety of charges, including resisting arrest and possession of illegal weapons, according to the Denver Post. Additionally, in Kent, Ohio, a man was arrested on suspicion of assault while possessing a firearm.
The Trump administration continues to pursue a nationwide crackdown on Antifa and similar leftist groups. However, the exact connection of the arrests to these groups remains ambiguous.
