Protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions have increasingly involved military veterans. Many veterans have faced arrest for participating in demonstrations against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Recent incidents highlight a troubling trend of veterans being prosecuted during these protests.
Veterans Arrested in Protests Against ICE Raids
Eight military veterans have been notably prosecuted after engaging in protests against ICE, amid growing concerns over immigration enforcement tactics. One significant event occurred on September 29, when 70-year-old Air Force veteran Dana Briggs was charged with felony assault on a federal officer.
Incident In Broadview, Illinois
- Location: Broadview, Illinois, outside ICE detention center.
- Event Date: September 29, 2023.
- Veteran Involved: Dana Briggs, 70.
- Charges: Felony assault against a federal officer.
A widely circulated video shows a masked ICE agent knocking over Briggs during a demonstration. Federal prosecutors allege that Briggs assaulted the agent by making contact with their arm. He has pleaded not guilty and was released on bail.
Experiences of Other Veterans
Another veteran, John Cerrone, was arrested the day before Briggs during a separate protest. Now 35, Cerrone is a former Marine Corps infantryman who served in Afghanistan. He described being tackled by agents while teargas filled the air. After nine hours in a rough holding cell, Cerrone received a citation for disorderly conduct, which he intends to contest.
Cerrone criticized the unprofessional conduct of the ICE agents, suggesting their behavior would not be tolerated in military operations.
Congressional Responses
In the wake of these incidents, U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis issued a temporary restraining order preventing federal agents from using riot control weapons against protesters and journalists in Chicago without probable cause.
Veteran advocacy groups, such as Common Defense, have voiced concerns over increasing government brutality. They assert that veterans like Briggs stand up for both immigrants and fundamental democratic principles.
Concerns Over Military Tactics
Demi Palecek, an Illinois Army National Guard member running for a legislative seat, criticized the handling of protests by ICE agents. She expressed worries that their apparent lack of training could result in unnecessary harm.
Similar unrest has been reported in various cities. Veterans are particularly vocal against the militarized approach of federal agents, especially in places designated for healthcare, such as the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital.
Widespread Impact on Veterans
Many veterans, irrespective of their legal status, fear being detained due to their appearance. One veteran noted that these apprehensions deter many from seeking necessary healthcare services.
- Recent protests highlight:
- Cultural fears among veterans of being targeted by ICE.
- Impact on healthcare access due to ICE operations at VA facilities.
Veterans across multiple states continue to challenge the increase in arrest rates tied to immigration policy protests. The situation underscores the intersection of veteran service, civil rights, and immigration enforcement as these veterans fight for justice.
