On the night of January 8, 2026, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) activated an Incident Management Team to oversee protests near the ICE building in South Portland. This included the Rapid Response Team and other specialized units.
At around 9 p.m., police asked protesters to move to the sidewalk to keep traffic flowing. Officers used a loudspeaker-equipped vehicle to make this request clear.
As the evening progressed, PPB made several targeted arrests, bringing the total related to ICE protests to 79. Among those arrested were:
- Ezekiel Mclain, 28, charged with Riot and Disorderly Conduct.
- Benjamin J. Davis, 24, charged with similar offenses.
- Seth Todd, 24, and Ashley Daugherty, both charged with Disorderly Conduct.
- Jordan Brokaw, 28, also charged with Disorderly Conduct.
At 11:30 p.m., PPB arrested Daryn Herzberg, 35, for using amplified sound equipment despite warnings.
All individuals were booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center.
It’s important to note that while PPB enforces state laws and ensures public safety, they do not engage in immigration enforcement, as detailed in PPB Directive 810.10. As Chief Day stated in a letter to the community, maintaining safety while respecting rights is key.
In 2023, a survey revealed that 68% of Portland residents support peaceful protests, but many also express concern about public safety during such events. The PPB’s approach reflects this balance, ensuring that protests remain safe while addressing any unlawful behavior. They monitor ongoing activity and follow up on investigations when necessary.
You can find further updates on public safety announcements through the PPB’s events channel on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
In the broader context, similar protests across the nation raise questions about law enforcement’s role. As tensions around immigration issues continue, community dialogue about balancing safety and rights remains crucial. For more insights on police practices and community safety, you can refer to this government report.
