After rioters burned an American flag at Portland’s ICE facility, a federal officer restored it, as DHS vows tougher enforcement.

New Flag Raised Amid Fourth of July Unrest

A federal officer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raised a new American flag after violent protesters burned the previous one outside the ICE facility in South Portland, Oregon, on Independence Day. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that the demonstration escalated into an attack, with rioters cutting internet cables, breaking the sprinkler system, and throwing rocks and fireworks at law enforcement officers.

According to the DHS, law enforcement faced direct assaults and significant property damage as the protest intensified. Amid the turmoil, the American flag at the federal facility was set alight, but an ICE officer quickly restored the banner—an act DHS described as emblematic of the unwavering patriotism demonstrated daily by law enforcement personnel.

DHS officials emphasized that, rather than gratitude for their service, federal agents are experiencing a near 700% increase in assaults. The department made clear that any threats or acts of violence against officers would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, echoing the policy stance set forth by Secretary Kristi Noem. “If you threaten or attempt to harm a law enforcement officer, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” the DHS statement read.

Administration Pledges Enhanced Enforcement in Sanctuary Cities

In response to the Portland attack, Border Czar Tom Homan announced intensified enforcement measures, especially in sanctuary cities that have obstructed ICE operations. Speaking Tuesday evening, Homan said the administration would “double down and triple down” on efforts in cities such as Portland, New York, and Chicago. He made it clear that federal agents would pursue suspects in the community if local jails refused to cooperate with ICE detainers, and that broader worksite enforcement would also increase.

Homan stressed that the focus on sanctuary cities is not politically motivated, but rather a response to ongoing public safety risks. He praised states like Florida for their cooperation with ICE, noting that resources could be redirected from those areas to jurisdictions resisting federal immigration enforcement. “If we can't arrest that bad guy in the jail, then we'll go to the community and we'll find him. Or we'll do more worksite enforcement,” Homan explained, adding that this approach often results in the arrest of additional individuals found to be residing in the country illegally.

As tensions continue over immigration policy and law enforcement, DHS and ICE officials reiterated their commitment to uphold federal law, ensure officer safety, and restore order in communities impacted by protest-related violence.