Retrial ordered for 9 accused in alleged attack on North Texas ICE facility

Judge cites clothing, evidence issues in declaring mistrial in initial case

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A federal judge in Fort Worth has ordered a retrial for nine defendants accused in an alleged attack at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Alvarado, Texas. The initial trial ended in a mistrial after the judge cited issues with defense attorneys' clothing and attempts to introduce evidence without prior approval.

Why it matters

The case has drawn national attention as part of ongoing debates around immigration enforcement and protests against ICE facilities. The retrial will likely continue to raise questions about the appropriate balance between defendants' rights and courtroom decorum.

The details

Federal District Judge Mark Pittman ordered the retrial to begin on Monday, Feb. 23, after declaring a mistrial earlier this week. During jury selection, the judge noticed that defense attorney MarQuetta Clayton was wearing a T-shirt with images of civil rights protesters, which he said could have prejudiced potential jurors. The judge also cited an attempt by the defense to introduce a poster board showing protest scenes without prior approval. To prevent further delays, Pittman has imposed stricter time limits on opening statements, closing arguments, and jury questioning.

  • Jury selection was underway on Tuesday when the mistrial was declared.
  • The retrial is set to begin on Monday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Judge Mark Pittman

The federal district judge overseeing the case who declared a mistrial and ordered the retrial with more restrictive rules.

MarQuetta Clayton

A defense attorney whose clothing choice led the judge to declare a mistrial, and who now faces a potential show-cause hearing for violating courtroom rules.

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What they’re saying

“There was no way of knowing if you can remove the skunk from the jury box.”

— Judge Mark Pittman (CBS News)

What’s next

The judge has said he will pursue a show-cause hearing for defense attorney MarQuetta Clayton after the retrial regarding her violation of courtroom rules.

The takeaway

This case highlights the delicate balance courts must strike between ensuring a fair trial and maintaining appropriate decorum in the courtroom. The retrial will test whether the judge's stricter rules can prevent further disruptions and allow the case to be heard on its merits.