UPDATE: The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has just announced an investigation into a federal agent accused of violently slamming a protester to the ground in Durango on November 7, 2023. This urgent inquiry comes after a video of the incident went viral, raising significant concerns over law enforcement’s conduct during a peaceful demonstration.
The incident unfolded Tuesday morning outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office, where protester Franci Stagi was allegedly thrown to the ground after a federal agent seized her phone. Stagi was among dozens protesting the recent arrest of a father and his two children, who were apprehended on their way to school. ICE has stated these individuals are not lawful residents of the U.S., intensifying community outrage.
The CBI confirmed it will assess whether state criminal laws were violated during the altercation. The results of this investigation will be forwarded to 6th Judicial District Attorney Sean Murray for potential criminal charges. CBI spokesperson Rob Lowe emphasized that the investigation will focus solely on the use of force against Stagi and is not related to separate abuse allegations involving the detained family.
In response to the escalating situation, the Durango City Council will convene for a special meeting at 4 p.m. today at City Hall. Police Chief Brice Current is expected to provide a detailed account of the protest and the incident at the ICE facility. Local leaders, including Mayor Gilda Yazzie, expressed deep concern over the use of force against peaceful demonstrators, calling the actions “just terrible.”
The La Plata County Board of County Commissioners also voiced their discontent, stating they are “deeply concerned” and support the CBI’s independent investigation. Commissioner Marsha Porter Norton highlighted the need for transparency and accountability, urging federal agencies to respect residents’ rights.
Demonstrators, including Councilor Shirley Gonzales, called for the immediate release of the detained family, emphasizing the need for a humane immigration process. Gonzales, reflecting on her own heritage, stated, “Let’s start, at a minimum, with allowing people that are in the process to complete the path that they’re on.”
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with local officials demanding accountability from federal agents. U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, along with U.S. Representative Jeff Hurd, have criticized the actions of ICE, labeling the arrests as an overreach and calling for a reevaluation of the agency’s practices.
As this situation develops, community members are urged to attend the City Council meeting to voice their concerns and discuss ways to address the violence witnessed this week. The outcome of the CBI’s investigation and the responses from local and federal officials will be closely monitored, as many residents seek justice and accountability for the actions taken against peaceful protesters.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to unfold.
