Cincinnati Police Arrest 13 During Protest Against Immigration Detention
Cincinnati police arrested at least 13 individuals, including two journalists, amid a protest advocating for Ayman Soliman, a former hospital chaplain detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstration occurred on the Roebling Bridge, disrupting traffic over the Ohio River.
Among those arrested were Madeline Fening, a reporter, and Lucas Griffith, a photography intern, both associated with CityBeat, a local news outlet. They were arraigned on Friday in Kentucky court, facing charges including felony rioting. The protest aimed to spotlight Soliman’s plight after he was detained during a routine ICE check-in last week.
The protest featured a banner reading "Build Bridges Not Walls," emphasizing a message of solidarity against immigration detention practices. However, the event escalated as police reported that some participants refused to disperse, leading to confrontations. Video footage showed tense moments, including an officer physically engaging with protesters.
Covington police issued a statement defending their response, noting that officers were initially met with hostility while attempting to converse with protest leaders. They underlined that while they support peaceful assembly, blocking major infrastructure poses significant risks.
This incident highlights a troubling trend, as journalists across the U.S. have faced violence or arrests during protests in recent months. In one notable case, journalist Mario Guevara was detained while covering a protest in Atlanta and later faced deportation, despite having work authorization.
As the situation unfolds, the community anticipates further developments regarding Soliman’s case and the broader implications for those advocating for immigrant rights. A judge set a $2,500 bond for each of the arrested individuals, while community supporters call for justice and accountability in immigration practices.
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