Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt in Durango Following ICE Detention of Colombian Family
10/31/2025, 2:38:16 AM
Incident Overview: ICE Detains Family, Sparks Outrage
On October 28, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained Fernando Jaramillo Solano, a Colombian father, along with his two children, 12-year-old Jana Michel Jaramillo Patiño and 15-year-old Kewin Daniel Patiño Bustamante, while they were en route to school in Durango, Colorado. The family is currently seeking asylum in the United States. The incident led to a significant protest outside the ICE facility, where demonstrators demanded the children's release.
Protest Escalation: Violence and Allegations of Excessive Force
During the protest, tensions escalated when an ICE agent was recorded forcibly detaining 57-year-old Franci Stagi, who was filming the events. Stagi attempted to retrieve her phone from the agent, who responded by throwing her to the ground and placing her in a chokehold. This incident, captured on video, has drawn widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the use of excessive force by federal agents. Stagi described the agent's actions as "theft and assault," emphasizing the lack of accountability for such behavior.
Official Investigations Underway
In response to the incident, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched an investigation to determine whether the agent violated state laws. The Durango Police Department had previously attempted to facilitate the release of the children to their mother, Estella Patiño, but ICE declined these requests. The CBI's findings will be forwarded to the 6th Judicial District Attorney's Office for potential criminal charges. Additionally, the FBI is also investigating the incident due to its occurrence on federal property.
Community and Political Reactions
Local advocacy groups, including Compañeros: Four Corners Immigrant Resource Center, have criticized ICE's actions, stating that the family was following legal immigration processes. Matt Karkut, co-executive director of the center, called the situation a "cruel and senseless abuse of power." Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed frustration over the federal government's lack of transparency regarding immigration enforcement actions in the state, emphasizing the need to prioritize the apprehension of dangerous criminals rather than separating families.
Criticism of Federal Actions
The incident has sparked broader discussions about ICE's enforcement tactics and their implications for community safety. Critics argue that the aggressive actions of federal agents undermine public trust and safety, particularly in vulnerable communities. The Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition has called for investigations into the use of excessive force by ICE and the involvement of local law enforcement in federal immigration operations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They are following the legal immigration process exactly as our system requires, and instead of protection, they are met with punishment. This is a cruel and senseless abuse of power.” — Matt Karkut, Co-Executive Director, Compañeros: Four Corners Immigrant Resource Center
- “While we have a sworn responsibility not to interfere with federal operations, our department advocated for the children's well-being.” — Brice Current, Durango Police Chief
What's Next
As investigations continue, community leaders are organizing meetings to discuss the implications of these events and the future of immigration enforcement in Colorado. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing calls for accountability and reform in federal immigration practices.
