Charges Against Portland Man with Quaker Background

A man described by his father as a “lifelong Quaker with a deep commitment to pacifism” is now facing several federal charges linked to his actions during anti-ICE protests.

Robert Jacob Hoops, hailing from Portland, Oregon, is accused of aggravated assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon and looting federal property valued at over $1,000.

During the protest on June 14th, it’s alleged that Hoops threw large rocks at a building associated with a federal agency in South Portland. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Oregon area, he aimed one of the rocks at an ICE officer, resulting in “severe tears in the eyes of the officer.” Additionally, Hoops and two others reportedly utilized a stop sign as a battering ram, which caused “major damage” to the building’s entrance.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office indicated that Hoops could face up to 10 years in prison for damaging federal property, with potential sentences reaching up to 20 years for assault-related charges.

“Jacob is a lifelong Quaker who is deeply committed to pacifism. He is an organic gardener and a soul of kindness,” noted Tom, Hoops’ father. He added, “Jacob was involved in the action on June 14th. What was his involvement? I can’t speak to it. But he’s deeply committed to justice.”

Interestingly, Quakers generally emphasize pacifism, rejecting “all forms of war and violence,” according to Quaker.org.

A local ABC affiliate mentioned a letter from Hoops’ roommate, describing him as “not the one who attacked the officers.”

In an unexpected turn, Magistrate Judge Youlee Yim You granted Hoops pretrial release during his initial hearing, despite objections from the federal prosecutors.