Portland Man Faces Federal Charges After Anti-ICE Protest

A Portland, Oregon resident, Robert Jacob Hoopes, is facing serious federal charges following his alleged involvement in an anti-ICE protest. Described by his father as a “lifelong Quaker deeply committed to pacifism,” Hoopes is now charged with aggravated assault of a federal officer using a dangerous weapon and causing significant damage to federal property. The charges stem from an incident on June 14, where Hoopes allegedly participated in actions that led to the injury of an ICE officer and damage to an ICE facility.

Details of the Alleged Incident

During the protest, Hoopes is accused of throwing large rocks at a building belonging to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in South Portland. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, one of these rocks struck an ICE officer, resulting in a “significant laceration over the officer’s eye.” Additionally, Hoopes and two other individuals were reportedly seen using a stop sign as a battering ram, causing “major damage” to the building’s main entrance.

Potential Legal Consequences

The legal implications for Hoopes are severe. If convicted of aggravated assault on a federal officer, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison. The charge of damaging federal property carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years. These charges highlight the serious nature of the alleged offenses and the potential long-term consequences for those involved in violent protests against federal agencies.

Community Reactions and Personal Background

Hoopes’ father, Tom, expressed disbelief at the charges, emphasizing his son’s commitment to pacifism and justice. He described Jacob as an organic gardener and “the soul of kindness,” questioning the allegations against him. Quakers, like Hoopes, are known for their strong stance against violence, which adds complexity to the accusations. A letter from Hoopes’ roommate further supports his character, stating that he is not someone who would have “assaulted an officer.” The roommate recounted witnessing armed officers arriving at their home on July 25, leading to Hoopes’ arrest.

Judicial Proceedings and Pretrial Release

Despite federal prosecutors’ requests for detention, Magistrate Judge Youlee Yim You granted Hoopes pretrial release during his initial court hearing. This decision allows Hoopes to await trial outside of custody, reflecting the ongoing legal process and considerations surrounding his case.