Federal Jury Convicts Three Spokane ICE Protesters on Conspiracy Charges as Appeals Loom
A federal jury in Spokane, Washington, has found three anti-ICE protesters guilty of felony conspiracy charges tied to a June 2025 demonstration that sought to stop federal authorities from transporting immigration detainees. The defendants include Army veteran Bajun Mavalwalla, whose case has drawn national attention from civil-liberties advocates and immigration activists.
The eight-day trial focused on whether the protesters coordinated actions that unlawfully interfered with federal officers. Prosecutors argued the defendants acted together to impede ICE operations, while defense attorneys contended the protest was constitutionally protected activity and did not amount to a criminal conspiracy.
The verdict follows months of controversy surrounding the prosecution. Critics of the case have argued the government is expanding the use of conspiracy statutes in ways that could affect future demonstrations. Supporters of the prosecution maintain that organized efforts to obstruct federal operations cross the line from protest into criminal conduct.
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The three defendants now face potential sentences of up to six years in prison and fines that could reach $250,000. Defense lawyers have already filed post-trial motions seeking to overturn the verdicts and are expected to pursue appeals.
The case is likely to remain closely watched because it sits at the intersection of immigration enforcement, protest rights, and federal prosecutorial authority. The next major stage will be sentencing and appellate review, which could further define how courts evaluate protest-related conspiracy cases.
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