The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported a significant incident on the Fourth of July at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland, Oregon. According to DHS, protesters targeted the facility, resulting in violence and vandalism. The protesters reportedly assaulted law enforcement officers, damaged federal property, and burned an American flag. In response to this act, a federal officer demonstrated patriotism by raising a new American flag at the site.

The DHS statement highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that rioters not only burned the flag but also cut internet cables, broke the sprinkler system, and hurled rocks and fireworks at law enforcement personnel. These actions led to multiple arrests as authorities charged individuals with assaulting federal officers. The DHS emphasized that such threats or acts of violence against law enforcement would not be tolerated.

Secretary Kristi Noem reiterated this stance, asserting that any threats or attempts to harm law enforcement officers would be met with full legal prosecution. This incident underscores the challenges faced by ICE agents, who are reportedly experiencing a nearly 700% increase in assaults against them.

In a related development, Border Czar Tom Homan appeared on Fox News’ “Kudlow,” where he discussed the administration’s approach to sanctuary cities like Portland. Homan stated that efforts would intensify in these areas to ensure ICE operations are not obstructed. He mentioned that if ICE cannot apprehend individuals in jails due to sanctuary policies, they would pursue them within communities or through worksite enforcement.

Homan clarified that the focus on sanctuary cities is not politically motivated but rather a matter of public safety. He praised Florida sheriffs for cooperating with ICE by honoring detainers and not releasing individuals who pose public safety threats. This cooperation allows ICE to allocate resources more efficiently to other cities like New York, Chicago, Portland, and Los Angeles.