Portland Judge Rules Police Not Required to Enforce Noise Laws at Protest Camp

Ruling highlights tensions between right to protest and residents' quality of life

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A Multnomah County judge has ruled that the Portland Police Bureau is not required to enforce the city's noise ordinances at a 24-hour protest encampment outside the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland. The decision stems from a legal challenge brought by a resident living near the protest site who argued the constant noise was creating untenable living conditions.

Why it matters

The ruling highlights the growing tension between the right to protest and the quality of life for residents in areas frequently targeted by demonstrations. It also underscores the complexities faced by law enforcement agencies navigating politically charged situations where constitutional rights must be balanced against public order concerns.

The details

The case was brought by Cloud Elvengrail, a disabled Black woman residing in low-income housing adjacent to the ICE facility. Elvengrail's lawsuit detailed the disruptive nature of the protest, citing the use of bullhorns and long-range acoustic devices (LRADs) that generated loud, piercing sounds. Judge Ellen Rosenblum's decision effectively allows the protest to continue without police intervention regarding noise levels, despite the city's noise ordinances.

  • The protest began on June 7, 2025.
  • Elvengrail filed the writ of mandamus on July 8, 2025.
  • The judge's ruling was delivered on August 14, 2025.

The players

Cloud Elvengrail

A disabled Black woman residing in low-income housing adjacent to the ICE facility who filed a lawsuit over the disruptive noise from the protest.

Judge Ellen Rosenblum

The Multnomah County judge who ruled that the Portland Police Bureau is not required to enforce the city's noise ordinances at the protest encampment.

Portland Police Bureau

The law enforcement agency that was not required to intervene regarding noise levels at the protest encampment.

Sameer Kanal

A District 2 Councilor in Portland who is proposing an ordinance to address concerns about unidentified federal agents operating within the city.

Aaron Schmautz

The president of the Portland Police Association who acknowledged the importance of verifying the identities of law enforcement personnel.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.