During a recent demonstration at the ICE facility in Portland's South Waterfront, authorities made several arrests, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) was on alert for protest activity. The department had activated its Incident Command Team, which oversaw a variety of resources such as Dialogue Liaison Officers (DLOs), Rapid Response Team (RRT), and an Air Support Unit. According to an official PPB statement, DLOs are distinctively clad in white uniforms and are appointed to engage with protesters, without direct enforcement authority.
Amidst the protests, two individuals were arrested on charges ranging from harassment to assault and robbery. The first arrest occurred at 3:59 p.m. when Leah Bothamley, aged 43, from South Dakota, was met with a harassment charge. Later, at 8:48 p.m., Eric Sanchez, 32, out of Kelso, Washington, was booked for assault in the third degree and robbery in the second degree, tied to a violent altercation that took place late September, "related to the same fight that resulted in 2 arrests reported in the news release that evening," as the PPB noted. These incidents bring the total arrests in the South Waterfront protest activities, which began in early June, to 40.
A tense moment unfolded around 9:52 p.m. near South Bancroft Street and South Bond Avenue, where a suspect, fleeing authorities, took a desperate plunge into the Willamette River and escaped to Ross Island. A coordinated effort by the police, which involved K9 units and Portland Fire & Rescue transport, culminated in the arrest of the suspect, who was discovered concealed in foliage on the island. The PPB was appreciative of the support from Portland Fire & Rescue and the Oregon State Police, stating its gratitude for their assistance in the official press release.
The police have asserted that while their strategy allows for engagement in public safety and support for constitutionally protected activities, they also must confront criminal conduct. Officers are often assembled in sizeable groups for the explicit purpose of implementing targeted apprehensions for specified illegal acts. "Officers may be seen in a larger group to make targeted arrests for specific crimes committed," PPB mentioned, and this proactive stance is fundamental in their ongoing responsibility to the community. Additionally, the PPB highlights that delays in making arrests do not preclude subsequent charges, as investigative follow-ups are conducted and cases may be sent to the Multnomah County District Attorney for prosecution.
For real-time updates and public safety announcements regarding the protests and other events, the PPB recommends following their channel, previously known as Twitter, now called X. Information on the PPB's approach to maintaining order during public events can also be readily accessed through their website.
