Free Prairieland Defendants July 25 Troy

Saturday, July 25, Troy: On July 4, 2025, a noisy demonstration was held outside the ICE Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, organized in solidarity with detainees. Protesters set off fireworks, vandalized property, and some engaged in confrontations with law enforcement. One protester, fearing an attack when local police arrived, fired a rifle, with an officer being wounded. The other protestors were accused of rioting, using explosives, and providing material support to terrorism. On June 23, 2026, eight defendants were sentenced to prison for 30 to100 years. One defendant not at the event was given 30 years for simply moving a box of zines and pamphlets at the request of his wife. A week later another three defendants received 15 to 50 years as part of the government’s crackdown on anti-ICE protesters. In imposing the draconian sentences, the judge relied on a “deterrence” rationale. On Saturday July 25, from 4 to 6 PM at 386 1st St. in Troy., members of the Dallas-Fort Worth Support Committee and local supporters will hold an informational event, along with the opportunity to write letters to the Prairieland Defendants. Local organizer Kevin talks to Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.