PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Tensions continued outside the Portland Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility Friday night as police arrested a 79-year-old man reportedly carrying brass knuckles.
Authorities identified the suspect as Vernon Ragan, who also goes by James Stone, a resident of Portland. According to the Portland Police Bureau (PPB), officers took Ragan into custody following an altercation near the facility. During the encounter, police discovered a set of brass knuckles in his possession.
Ragan was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of menacing and unlawful use of a weapon. Officers confiscated the brass knuckles as evidence in the case.
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The incident occurred amid ongoing protests outside the ICE facility, which have persisted for several months. Demonstrations have frequently taken place at night, with participants voicing opposition to federal immigration policies and the operation of the local detention site.
According to police records, Ragan’s arrest marks the 66th protest-related arrest since demonstrations began in June. Law enforcement officials say they continue to monitor gatherings around the facility to ensure public safety and prevent violence.
While authorities did not release further details about the nature of the altercation that led to the arrest, they confirmed no serious injuries were reported.
The Portland Police Bureau has urged demonstrators to remain peaceful during protests and avoid bringing weapons or engaging in behavior that could endanger others.
This latest arrest highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the ICE facility, which has been a focal point for activism and law enforcement presence throughout the year.
