Anti-ICE protest in Stuart became the focus of law enforcement and community attention on October 22, 2025, as demonstrators gathered along Commerce Avenue and Fischer Street in front of a building housing the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and Border Patrol. The protest unfolded during a week of heightened immigration law enforcement in St. Lucie County and the Treasure Coast, particularly in Martin County, according to state records.
Anti-ICE Protest in Stuart: Timeline and Key Events
According to the Stuart Police Department and Martin County Sheriff’s Office, officers were present at the scene as tensions escalated between protesters and a bystander. The demonstration began in the early evening and drew dozens of participants holding signs and voicing opposition to immigration enforcement policies.
Location and Purpose of the Demonstration
Protesters assembled at the intersection of Commerce Avenue and Fischer Street, directly in front of a building occupied by the Florida Highway Patrol and Border Patrol. Organizers cited ongoing immigration enforcement activities as the reason for the demonstration, aligning with similar protests across Florida in October 2025.
Law Enforcement Response and Crowd Control
According to a preliminary report from the Florida Highway Patrol, Commerce Avenue was temporarily shut down as officers used sound tactics to disperse the crowd. FHP troopers also pulled over and ticketed several vehicles for honking while passing the protest, citing traffic safety concerns.
The Stuart Police Department confirmed that one protester was detained during the event. Law enforcement maintained a visible presence throughout the evening, coordinating with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office to monitor the situation and ensure public safety.
- FHP shut down Commerce Avenue for a brief period
- Sound tactics were used to encourage dispersal
- Vehicles honking in support were stopped and ticketed
- One protester was detained by Stuart Police
Heightened Immigration Enforcement on the Treasure Coast
State records confirm that authorities were carrying out intensified immigration enforcement operations on the Treasure Coast during the week of the protest. Martin County, in particular, saw increased activity from both state and federal agencies, aligning with federal mandates impacting local enforcement efforts.
The timing of the Stuart protest coincided with these enforcement efforts, leading to a visible law enforcement presence and direct engagement with demonstrators and bystanders.
Regional and National Context
The anti-ICE protest in Stuart was part of a broader series of demonstrations across Florida and the United States in October 2025. According to regional news outlets, similar protests—such as the “No Kings” demonstrations—drew thousands of participants in multiple cities, reflecting ongoing opposition to federal immigration policies and enforcement actions.
Organizers and participants in Stuart voiced concerns about the impact of heightened enforcement on local families and communities. The event included conversations between protesters and bystanders about immigration issues, as seen when Ellen Gibeau, a Stuart resident, engaged in discussion during the demonstration. Notably, former St. Lucie Sheriff Keith Pearson’s new DHS role has also drawn attention to the evolving landscape of immigration enforcement in the region, particularly in relation to the Department of Homeland Security.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
- Florida Highway Patrol (FHP): Managed traffic and crowd control, issued citations, and temporarily closed Commerce Avenue.
- Stuart Police Department: Maintained order, detained one protester, and coordinated with other agencies.
- Martin County Sheriff’s Office: Assisted with public safety and monitored the demonstration.
- Border Patrol: Located in the building in front of which the protest took place.
According to official sources, the law enforcement response was designed to maintain safety for both protesters and the general public. Details may be updated as investigation continues.
Aftermath and Ongoing Developments
By approximately 8 p.m., the main group of protesters had dispersed from Commerce Avenue and Fischer Street. According to Stuart Police, a smaller group continued their demonstration at the intersection of U.S. 1 and Fischer Street.
No major injuries were reported, and law enforcement agencies stated that the situation remained under control throughout the evening. Officials continue to monitor related demonstrations and enforcement activities across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-ICE Protest in Stuart
What happened at the anti-ICE protest in Stuart?
On October 22, 2025, protesters gathered along Commerce Avenue and Fischer Street in Stuart to oppose immigration enforcement. Law enforcement responded by shutting down the street, using sound tactics, and detaining one protester.
How did law enforcement respond to the Stuart protest?
According to the Florida Highway Patrol and Stuart Police Department, officers closed Commerce Avenue, used sound tactics to disperse the crowd, and ticketed vehicles for honking. One protester was detained during the demonstration.
Are there other anti-ICE protests happening in Florida?
Yes, the Stuart protest was part of a series of demonstrations across Florida and the United States in October 2025. Similar events have taken place in other cities as part of broader opposition to immigration enforcement policies.
Can you be ticketed for honking during a protest in Stuart?
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, several drivers were ticketed for honking while passing the protest. Law enforcement cited traffic safety and local ordinances as reasons for issuing citations.
Where are anti-ICE protests taking place on the Treasure Coast?
The October 22 protest occurred in Stuart, at Commerce Avenue and Fischer Street. Other demonstrations have been reported in various cities across the Treasure Coast and Florida.
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