Spokane Declares Emergency Amidst ICE Protests and Curfew Violations

Spokane, Washington, is under a state of emergency following protests that did not adhere to a curfew imposed by Mayor Lisa Brown. The curfew, which began at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday and extended until 5 a.m., was issued in response to protests related to ICE activities in the downtown area. The protests were centered around the area from Boone Ave to Spokane Falls Blvd and Howard St to Division St, as well as Riverfront Park.

The protests were initiated after former Spokane City Councilman Ben Stuckart called for support regarding the detention of a Venezuelan man seeking asylum. Stuckart had become the legal guardian of the 21-year-old man three weeks prior. His call to action urged people to gather in protest of the detention.

Law enforcement, including the Spokane Police Department and the county sheriff's office, declared the gathering unlawful. Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns issued a statement condemning the unrest and supporting law enforcement. He emphasized the importance of upholding First Amendment rights while also stressing the responsibility to exercise those rights lawfully.

Mayor Brown also released a statement acknowledging the situation and affirming the city's commitment to upholding First Amendment rights. She also mentioned the city's adherence to the Keep Washington Working Act. The Spokane Police Department addressed violations of the Spokane Municipal Code. Brown encouraged peaceful and safe conduct and expressed sympathy for families affected by separations.