Portland Man Faces 20 Years for Assaulting ICE Agent

Robert Jacob Hoopes pleaded guilty to aggravated assault of a federal employee with a dangerous weapon.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A Portland, Oregon, man named Robert Jacob Hoopes pleaded guilty to assaulting a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer with a large rock in June 2025. Hoopes faces up to 20 years in prison for the felony aggravated assault charge, as well as additional charges related to damaging federal property during the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between anti-ICE protesters and federal law enforcement in Portland, which has seen a rise in aggressive actions against ICE facilities and personnel in recent years. The assault on the ICE officer raises concerns about the potential for escalating violence and the challenges faced by federal agencies in maintaining public safety.

The details

According to court documents, the ICE field office in Portland had been under constant siege of protests for several weeks before the incident involving Hoopes. Hoopes was observed on security cameras throwing a rock that struck an ICE Enforcement and Removal officer in the face, causing significant facial injury. Hoopes also joined other agitators in using a metal pole from a damaged stop sign to strike the facility's front door, causing over $7,000 in damage.

  • The incident occurred on June 14, 2025.
  • Hoopes pleaded guilty to the charges on February 21, 2026.
  • Hoopes is scheduled for sentencing on May 12, 2026.

The players

Robert Jacob Hoopes

A Portland, Oregon, man who pleaded guilty to aggravated assault of a federal employee with a dangerous weapon and depredation of federal property.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that was the target of the protests and assault in Portland.

Reed College

The college from which Hoopes graduated with a degree in computer science in 2023.

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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)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on May 12, 2026 whether to sentence Hoopes to up to 20 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between anti-ICE protesters and federal law enforcement in Portland, and the potential for escalating violence when demonstrations turn aggressive. It also raises questions about the appropriate balance between free speech and public safety, and the challenges faced by federal agencies in maintaining order during contentious protests.