FBI agents utilized facial recognition technology to pinpoint a suspect linked to injuries sustained by an Ice Officer during protests in Portland, Oregon. According to the criminal charges, an unnamed FBI special agent indicated that photos shared online had been processed with commercially available facial recognition software, which produced 30 potential matches from a public database. The FBI’s Portland division identified one of the photos on a Reed College SmugMug page titled “Canyon Day ’23,” which showed the suspect’s distinct forearm tattoos, matching an individual seen at an anti-ICE protest on June 14th.
Robert Jacob Hoops was taken into custody at his home on Friday, facing charges of aggravated assault against a federal officer and damaging government property. The accusations state that Hoops allegedly threw a rock that struck an ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officer, causing significant injuries that resulted in severe bleeding and impaired vision. Furthermore, reports suggest that he was involved with two others who were using metal rods to vandalize stop signs. The cost to replace the damaged door was estimated at $7,747.72.
The charges reveal that a rock was thrown at a federal officer during a protest, leading to Hoops’ arrest in Blue City. His father, Tom Hoops, described Robert as a “lifelong Quaker” firmly dedicated to pacifism. While acknowledging his son’s attendance at the anti-ICE protest, he noted he couldn’t speak to the specifics of Robert’s involvement, emphasizing his commitment to justice.
There was a noteworthy display of support from the wider community, especially from fellow Quakers, which was significant in persuading the judge to release Jacob after his arrest. It seems like this community backing has been pivotal for him during this time of legal trouble.
Hoops is set to appear in court on August 15th. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Oregon area announced that he could face up to 20 years in federal prison related to the assault charges and an additional 10 years for the damage to property.
