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Eight anti-ICE protesters sentenced to 30-100 years for July 4 detention center protest

Jun 23, 2026 · Alvarado, TX

Eight anti-ICE activists were sentenced to 30 to 100 years in prison on June 23, 2026, following convictions on federal charges including riot, material support for terrorism, and explosives-related offenses stemming from a July 4, 2025 noise demonstration at Prairieland ICE Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas. Benjamin Hanil Song received a 100-year sentence after being convicted of attempted murder for allegedly shooting a police officer during the protest. Daniel Sanchez Estrada, a lawful permanent resident who was not present at the protest, received a 30-year sentence for transporting a box of antifascist zines after his wife attended the demonstration. The remaining six defendants received 50 to 70-year sentences. Defendants and their supporters challenged the convictions, arguing the government presented insufficient evidence and that the prosecution constituted political persecution, but sentencing proceeded despite pending motions to overturn the convictions.

Timeline

Jun 23, 2026Eight defendants sentenced to 30-100 years in prison; supporters held rally and press conference outside federal courthouse
Mar 30, 2026Defendants filed motions to overturn convictions, citing Brady violations, prosecutorial misconduct, juror misconduct, and insufficient evidence
Mar 13, 2026Nine defendants convicted on federal charges including riot, material support for terrorism, and explosives offenses
Dec 4, 2025Daniel Sanchez Estrada surrendered to federal authorities after one week of release
Nov 26, 2025Daniel Sanchez Estrada released from federal detention due to clerical error
Jul 6, 2025Daniel Sanchez Estrada arrested during traffic stop for transporting printed political material
Jul 4, 2025Noise demonstration at Prairieland ICE Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas; gunfire exchanged with police officer

Sources

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