PORTLAND, Ore. – A Gervais man appeared in federal court after allegedly assaulting a federal officer during a tense encounter near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in South Portland.
Federal prosecutors say Jairin Anzaldua-Ervin, 29, faces a felony charge for assaulting a federal officer following an altercation outside the ICE building on October 4.
Court documents state that Anzaldua-Ervin was part of a group trespassing on the driveway of the federal property when officers ordered them to move.
Instead, authorities say he threw a water bottle that struck a law enforcement officer in the chest before being taken into custody.
Officials condemn violent acts against law enforcement
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford condemned the incident, calling it a criminal act rather than a form of protest. “Throwing water bottles, or any object for that matter, at federal law enforcement officers is not protesting – it’s a crime – and perpetrators will be arrested and federally prosecuted,” Bradford said in a statement.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that since June 13, 30 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from unrest at the ICE building, including assault, failure to comply, and property damage.
Case moves forward in federal court
Anzaldua-Ervin appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was released on conditions pending future proceedings.
The charge of assaulting a federal officer carries a maximum penalty of eight years in federal prison.
Federal officials say they will continue pursuing charges against anyone who attacks or obstructs officers during enforcement operations.
Justice moves slowly, but it never stops in Portland.