Denver Police Arrest 17 During Downtown ICE Protest, Use Smoke and Pepper Balls to Disperse Crowd
Tensions flared in downtown Denver Tuesday night as hundreds marched in solidarity with Los Angeles demonstrators protesting immigration enforcement operations. Organized by the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, the protest began at the Colorado Capitol around 5:30 p.m. but escalated around 8 p.m. when some participants attempted to block traffic near South Broadway and I-25.
The Denver Police Department responded by deploying smoke and pepper balls—devices that release an irritant similar to pepper spray—to disperse the crowd. Officers say they issued multiple warnings before taking action. No tear gas was used, according to officials.
Throughout the night, police reported protesters throwing rocks and bottles at officers and engaging in graffiti and vandalism. A total of 17 individuals were arrested on various charges:
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3 for graffiti
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1 for interference with police
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1 for unlawful throwing of projectiles and failure to obey orders
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7 for obstructing streets and disobeying orders
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2 for obstructing streets, interference, and failure to obey orders
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1 for second-degree assault
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2 for second-degree assault on a peace officer
Names of those arrested were not immediately released. The Denver Police Department reiterated that while it enforces criminal laws, it does not assist with civil federal immigration enforcement, and does not question victims or witnesses about their immigration status.
The department emphasized its commitment to community safety, stating it will continue to cite or arrest anyone committing criminal offenses, regardless of immigration background.
