Ex-Spokane council president pleads guilty after blocking ICE bus in high-stakes standoff

Former Spokane City Council President Ben Stuckart pleaded guilty Monday to a felony count of impeding federal immigration officers, admitting he obstructed an ICE transport bus during a June 11 protest that drew national attention. He may later change the felony plea to a misdemeanor charge. The Spokesman-Review reported that Stuckart’s plea stems from his attempt to block agents from transporting two Venezuelan immigrants from Spokane to Tacoma’s detention facility.

Outside the federal courthouse, Stuckart told reporters, per the Spokesman-Review, that he “accepted full responsibility” and believed he “had to take a stand.” His social-media call to action helped ignite a large demonstration outside Spokane’s ICE office near Riverfront Park, where crowds swarmed exits and blocked federal vehicles.

According to the indictment cited by the newspaper, protesters stood in front of the transport bus, let air out of its tires, and even painted its windshield, rendering it unsafe to drive.

Trump administration takes on ICE interference

After 18 months, Stuckart is allowed to withdraw the felony plea, then plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge. During the 18 months, he must adhere to conditions set by a judge. He’s unlikely to face jail.

As reported by the Spokesman-Review, the Justice Department told U.S. attorneys to prioritize cases involving interference with immigration enforcement just one day after the Spokane blockade.

Stuckart is scheduled to return to court June 7, when a judge will determine whether the plea withdrawal is granted or whether he will face sentencing — a process that could carry up to six years in prison and substantial fines.

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