Updated April 17, 2026, 1:24pm PT
Federal Immigration Agents Make Arrest at Marion County Courthouse
Federal immigration officials apprehended a suspect at the Marion County Courthouse on April 16, marking another significant enforcement action in the area. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the arrest occurred around 8:45 a.m., with deputies from the Judicial Security Division taking Javier Osorio-Altamira, 49, into custody under a judicial warrant.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Osorio-Altamira was present for a scheduled hearing regarding two first-degree sexual abuse charges when he was arrested. Court records indicate that he had been released on bail, with his trial set to commence on September 16. The sheriff’s office received notification of the warrant from officials at Homeland Security.
Independent Review and Custody Transfer
The sheriff’s office stated that deputies “independently reviewed” the warrant, facilitating Osorio-Altamira’s arrest without intervention from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). After his arrest, he was transferred to federal agents waiting outside the courthouse, according to sheriff’s office reports.
Previous Arrests at the Courthouse
This incident marks the third immigrant arrest at the Marion County Courthouse within a month. On March 26, two individuals were apprehended: one under a judicial warrant and the other under an administrative warrant. Footage of that arrest was later released by the sheriff’s office in response to multiple media inquiries.
Concerns About Immigration Enforcement in State Courts
In response to growing concerns, Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice Megan Flynn issued an interim order on June 30, 2025, aimed at clarifying court processes related to immigration enforcement. The order highlights that fears surrounding immigration activities in state courts deter individuals from participating in the judicial process, posing a “serious threat” to the administration of justice in Oregon.
State Sanctuary Law Implications
Flynn emphasized that the state’s sanctuary law prohibits the arrest of civilians in or near court facilities unless a judicial warrant or order is obtained. A spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Justice noted that the Marion County Sheriff’s Office informed the court of its warrant review and subsequent arrest on April 16, while federal agents remained outside the courthouse. The Justice Department clarified that no court officials were involved in the arrest process.
Future Proceedings and Legal Review
Osorio-Altamira’s sexual abuse case will continue through Marion County courts, although it remains uncertain whether local officials or the state will pursue his release from federal custody in order to facilitate his trial. As the situation unfolds, the Oregon Department of Justice is reviewing both cases to assess their potential impact on ongoing legal proceedings. Neither Osorio-Altamira’s attorney nor officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security provided immediate commentary regarding the situation.
Diane Lugo writes about the Oregon Legislature and equity issues. You can reach her at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com.
