Protesters gather in Palm Springs and Indio to speak out against local immigration operations
Cynthia White
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Protesters began gathering near the Marriott Courtyard on Tahquitz Canyon Way in Palm Springs and the Fairfield Inn and Suites on Marmara Street in Indio around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, speaking out against local immigration operations.
A flier was posted earlier in the day on social media announcing “ICE melts in the desert,” and that “emergency loud protests” would be held in both locations.
Police were present at both demonstrations, with police at the Palm Springs location moving protesters off of private property and warning them of noise ordinance violations. Due to the 10:00 p.m. noise ordinance in Palm Springs, demonstrators began dispersing at that time and few remained after that hour.
Indio Police Department says approximately 100 people were at the Fairfield Inn on Marmara, and add that for the most part, they were peaceful. There was some lighting of fireworks as well as a few people driving recklessly in the area early on; however, police say it stopped.
Police report one vehicle stop was made, ending in the arrest of a 45-year-old Indio man, who they charged with reckless driving and driving under the influence.
While police report that everything appeared to be peaceful around 11:00 p.m., they say some protesters were earlier delaying entry and exit to the hotel.
They add that ICE Agents were not staying at that location, and sent out a reminder in a statement:
“[S]ome guests staying at the hotel also have children and people with disabilities who could be affected by the noise, fireworks, and vehicles driving recklessly. The Indio Police Department’s role is to maintain peace and allow peaceful protests. However, those who come to Indio to protest peacefully will be protected, but those who intend to commit crimes, damage property, or harm others will be arrested.”
Stay with News Channel 3 for updates.