Charges Filed After Protest Turns Violent
An anti-ICE protest led to charges against a participant on Thursday after he reportedly attacked federal law enforcement officers during a demonstration at Delaney Hall.
Brendan John Guyer, 26, faces accusations of “kicking and biting” an ICE officer, which resulted in “severe injuries” to the officer outside the Newark Detention Center, according to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. An image shared on social media displayed the aftermath of the altercation, showcasing a bruised and bloodied officer.
Blanche emphasized that peaceful protests should not escalate into violent confrontations with federal agents, who are tasked with safeguarding U.S. property. He noted, “With virtually no support from local law enforcement in New Jersey, protesters seem to be regrouping and intensifying their attacks.”
“We will not tolerate the vicious attacks seen in Newark in recent days and will make arrests and hold those responsible for their criminal acts accountable,” he added.
Guyer, from Madison, New Jersey, made an appearance on Friday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kari Fais.
The Justice Department claims that Guyer was among a sizable group obstructing the road leading to the Delaney Hall ICE Detention Center around 10:30 p.m. the previous night.
This facility has been at the center of recent protests over allegations regarding the conditions detainees face, which the Department of Homeland Security strongly disputes.
ICE agents reportedly formed a line to clear the road and moved toward the demonstrators, including Guyer. The department stated, “Deportation officers instructed the protestors to ‘stand back,’ but they did not comply.” Instead, Guyer allegedly engaged in a struggle with officers, kicking one and biting the forearm of one officer and the knuckles of another. Both individuals required treatment at a nearby hospital.
Homeland Security Secretary Mark Wayne Mullin labeled Guyer a “violent instigator,” asserting the administration’s unwavering support for federal law enforcement. He warned, “Those who assault law enforcement officers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Amid the unrest, attempts to reach Guyer for comments were unsuccessful.
During the continued clashes at Delaney Hall on Friday night, despite efforts by New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill to create a “peaceful” protest area, protestors could be heard chanting harsh remarks directed at law enforcement. Footage showed that law enforcement responded by deploying tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowds.
