Vermont State Police arrested 11 people and issued citations to two others Monday after a group refused to leave a Williston office building that houses a federal immigration facility.
According to a state police press release, all 13 individuals — ranging in age from 21 to 85 — are scheduled to be arraigned on criminal trespassing charges in Chittenden County criminal court on March 2. The building contains an office used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including its National Criminal Analysis and Targeting Center, which provides intelligence support to immigration enforcement operations.
Organizers said roughly 25 protesters gathered inside the building Monday afternoon, calling on the property owner to end ICE’s lease. Participants reportedly sat near the office entrance, sang songs, and spoke about immigration enforcement policies. When asked to leave by the property manager, the group declined. Local police initially responded, and later Vermont State Police arrived and informed the group they would face arrest if they did not disperse. Some protesters left, while 13 remained and were taken into custody.
In a statement, state police said they respect the right to peaceful protest but noted that private property owners can restrict access to their buildings. The Williston ICE office has been the site of multiple demonstrations in recent months as activists continue to voice opposition to federal immigration enforcement policies. Organizers indicated they plan to continue advocating for the agency to leave the area.