Robby Roadsteamer Has Been Arrested by ICE and the Internet Is Crying Foul

Robby Roadsteamer, a well-known American performance artist and protest figure, was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers during a volatile demonstration in Minneapolis on 12 January 2026, as nationwide unrest over immigration enforcement continued.

The arrest took place outside a federal building where hundreds of demonstrators had gathered to protest recent ICE operations. Video footage shared widely online shows federal agents restraining a protester dressed in a giraffe costume before leading them away in handcuffs. The images quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting widespread criticism and renewed debate over federal enforcement tactics.

The Minneapolis protest came amid growing anger following the fatal shooting of a woman by an ICE agent earlier in the week. That incident triggered large-scale demonstrations across the city, with organisers estimating that tens of thousands of people took part in rallies over the weekend. Protesters demanded accountability, independent investigations and changes to immigration policy.

Who is Robby Roadsteamer

Born Louis Robert Potylo in Salem, Massachusetts, he first gained wider attention through radio work and street performances before building an online following. His character, Robby Roadsteamer, blends comedy with political messaging, a style that has earned both praise and criticism. Supporters say his performances make serious issues more accessible, while critics argue they distract from the gravity of the protests.

Online communities quickly reacted to news of his arrest. One widely shared comment described him as a 'Boston comedian, musician, and (obviously) activist' and noted that he had a long history in the entertainment world. The same commenter referred to Roadsteamer as an 'absolute legend' and alluded to his personal connections, including past involvement with the late professional wrestling star Chyna and a documentary about her life. Many social media posts ended with strong expressions of opposition to ICE and its tactics.

Another comment joked that Roadsteamer is 'the only person willing to campaign to make Boston ... and save the Route 1 Dinosaur,' a reference to local Massachusetts landmarks and traditions. Some commentators said he deserved protection and support, though those remarks were written in a more humorous and informal tone than typical news coverage.

Detained for Free Speech

Tensions in Minnesota escalated after the fatal shooting earlier in January, leading state and city officials to take legal action against federal authorities. Local leaders have accused federal agencies of overreach and of violating civil rights, calling for limits on enforcement operations and greater transparency.

The arrest occurred outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, where hundreds of demonstrators had gathered to protest a federal immigration enforcement surge. Video from the scene showed Roadsteamer — who often performs in costume and uses satire in his acts — speaking into a microphone and loudly criticising ICE agents before officers moved in and detained him. The footage quickly spread online, prompting strong reactions. Many online observers said he was 'arrested for talking' because the videos show him mainly speaking and engaging with the crowd rather than committing any clear offence.

At present, formal charges against Roadsteamer in connection with the Minneapolis arrest have not been publicly disclosed. ICE and the Department of Homeland Security have released limited information about individual detentions, and details continue to emerge as legal representatives and protest organisers work to clarify the circumstances.