Portland Antifa Militants Charged in 17 Cases After July 4 Arson Attack at ICE Facility; Resident Files Lawsuit Amid Federal Crowd Control

Since mid-June 2025, Portland has experienced ongoing violent protests by Antifa militants targeting the local Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. The protests have involved nightly attempts to attack and burn down the ICE building, including an arson attack on July 4, which prompted federal officers to respond with crowd control measures such as tear gas and pepper balls. Federal authorities have made multiple arrests, with at least 17 Antifa suspects federally charged on various offenses including assault on federal officers, arson, and depredation of federal property. Antifa militants have established a nearby encampment and a base of operations inside a local apartment building, distributing riot gear and recruiting individuals through free food.

The protests have severely disrupted the surrounding residential neighborhood, with residents complaining about loud noise and harassment throughout the night. A disabled Black Portland resident has publicly confronted the protesters, accusing them of terrorizing the community and has announced plans to sue the city for permitting the ongoing occupation. Local police have largely refrained from intervening in the protests, labeling them peaceful despite residents’ complaints. The city and state officials have not condemned the violent actions. On Independence Day, Antifa rioters also burned an upside-down American flag outside the federal building, which was subsequently replaced by an ICE Special Response Team with a proper American flag.