Introduction to the Incident
Five people are facing federal charges following weekend protests outside an ICE processing center in Broadview, with all of them appearing before a judge on Monday. The group is accused of forcibly assaulting or resisting federal agents during Saturday’s demonstration. Three were released, while two remain in federal custody.
Background of the Protest
Tensions flared during the protest as demonstrators clashed with federal agents. Among those arrested were 31-year-old Ray Collins and his 30-year-old fiancée, Jocelyne Robledo. “His wife was being arrested, he went to his wife’s rescue and that’s why he was charged,” defense attorney Richard Kling said. "I don’t care what ICE says. ICE is doing horrible things right now. They have armed soldiers in the streets, arresting people. ICE originally said they were only going after convicted felons and people who had criminal histories."
Charges Against the Protesters
Both Collins and Robledo were accused of carrying loaded handguns, but the pair are licensed to conceal carry and neither displayed nor used the weapons during the protest. ICE later posted photos on social media, labeling the pair “armed rioters.” Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino also posted on the social media platform X saying, "Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. Two protesters thought they’d spice things up by bringing loaded handguns. Instead of making their point, they now have to make bail."
Court Proceedings
U.S. District Judge Gabriel Fuentes released Robledo but ordered Collins to remain in custody. “I can only think of one other instance where it’s been this close. This is a close call for me,” Fuentes said. He ultimately came to his decision based partially on allegations that Robledo pushed back against federal agents while Collins charged at them, injuring an ATF Special Agent’s thumb. Despite Kling’s argument that Collins carries a firearm at all times for personal protection, Fuentes said, “Engaging in a physical confrontation and scuffle with agents while carrying a loaded firearm injects a great amount of danger not just to the people right there, but to a whole group of individuals at the protest.”
Other Defendants
Another defendant, 26-year-old Paul Ivery, a food service worker at Oak Park and River Forest High School, was also detained. Prosecutors allege he threatened to kill Border Patrol officers, challenged them to act on his threat, and attempted to flee by running and jumping onto a vehicle. Court documents allege Ivery attended the protest because he believed ICE agents were disrespectful toward Broadview police and military veterans. Over 15 people were in the courtroom to support him, including friends, family and educators. “He is such a wonderful young man and to see these charges try to imply that he is a terrorist is so unfounded, and I want to make sure that that is spoken,” Ivery’s neighbor, Tara Gerou, said. "He is a beloved member of our community who was wrapped up in something very heated."
Conclusion
The incident highlights the escalating tensions between protesters and federal agents outside ICE facilities. The charges brought against the protesters have sparked debate about the limits of free speech and the right to peaceful assembly. As the cases proceed, it remains to be seen how the courts will balance these rights with the need to maintain public safety.
FAQs
- Q: What were the protesters accused of?
A: The protesters were accused of forcibly assaulting or resisting federal agents during the demonstration. - Q: How many protesters were released and how many remain in custody?
A: Three protesters were released, while two remain in federal custody. - Q: What were Ray Collins and Jocelyne Robledo accused of?
A: They were accused of carrying loaded handguns, but they are licensed to conceal carry and neither displayed nor used the weapons during the protest. - Q: What was Paul Ivery accused of?
A: He was accused of threatening to kill Border Patrol officers, challenging them to act on his threat, and attempting to flee by running and jumping onto a vehicle. - Q: What is the next step in the cases against the protesters?
A: The detention hearing for Collins was held on Monday, while Ivery’s is scheduled for next week.
