The Anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activists in Denver, Colorado, successfully helped an illegal migrant evade arrest by ICE agents who were attempting to detain him for child rape charges in Italy. ICE Colorado reported that they were trying to apprehend Jose Reyes Leon-Deras, a criminal alien from El Salvador convicted of child rape in Italy, when members of a local anti-ICE group, Colorado Rapid Response, tipped him off about the presence of law enforcement officers.
The group posted on social media, alerting Leon-Deras to ICE’s presence in the area, giving him the opportunity to escape before he could be apprehended. ICE Colorado expressed frustration at the interference caused by groups like Colorado Rapid Response, stating that it hinders their ability to maintain community safety.
As a result of the incident, ICE has urged the public to report any sightings of Leon-Deras to federal authorities but cautioned against approaching him directly. Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has previously pledged to deploy police officers to prevent ICE agents from carrying out deportations, and the city has reportedly spent over $356 million in taxpayer funds on services for migrants. Furthermore, a 2017 Denver ordinance restricts officials from cooperating with ICE.
The occurrence of anti-ICE protests and activities has surged since President Donald Trump resumed office and pledged to execute the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. In Portland, Oregon, activists attempted to obstruct the entrance of an ICE deportation facility, launching fireworks and shining lasers at law enforcement. Similarly, in Los Angeles, a group of protesters set fire to cars, vandalized property, and threw rocks at law enforcement, prompting Trump to deploy the National Guard.
The recent “No Kings” demonstrations nationwide have been fueled by opposition to mass deportations. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed that 75% of illegal aliens arrested during the Trump administration have been charged with or convicted of a crime.
The incidents involving anti-ICE activists highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States. It underscores the complex dynamics between law enforcement agencies, activists, and the immigrant community.
