Photojournalist Dave Decker Has Charges Dropped in Miami ICE Protest Case

December 17, 2025 – USA –

Charges against photojournalist David “Dave” Decker in connection with a protest at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) center in Miami have been dropped, ending a legal ordeal that raised concerns among press-freedom advocates about journalists’ rights to document demonstrations and police responses.

Decker was arrested in early December 2025 during a protest outside the Krome Service Processing Center, an ICE detention facility west of Miami, where immigrants were being held amid ongoing debates over U.S. immigration policy. He had been covering the demonstration for his publication when law enforcement detained him and charged him with obstructing a highway and participating in an unlawful assembly — allegations Decker and his lawyers said were unfounded and impeded his work as a journalist.

According to local court filings and statements from prosecutors, all charges were formally dropped on December 16, 2025, after law enforcement and the State Attorney’s office reviewed the case. Authorities acknowledged that Decker was acting in his capacity as a journalist, reporting on events and documenting the protest rather than engaging in criminal conduct. The dismissal reflects recognition that journalists should not be penalized for lawful newsgathering, particularly in public protests where their presence is essential to transparency.

In response to the decision, Decker’s attorney said the photojournalist was relieved but emphasized that the initial arrest had sent a chilling message to members of the press. Media-freedom advocates noted that arresting a journalist at a protest can discourage coverage of politically sensitive events, even when the reporter is clearly identified and performing professional duties. They welcomed the prosecutor’s review and the decision to drop the charges as a reaffirmation of constitutional protections for press freedom.

Decker also issued a brief statement thanking supporters and reiterating the importance of journalists being able to document demonstrations without fear of arrest. He said the experience underscored the continuing need for clear guidelines and training for law enforcement on how to interact with journalists in volatile situations.

Civil liberties groups praised the dismissal as a victory for First Amendment rights and press freedom. They also called on local law enforcement agencies to adopt stronger protocols to clearly distinguish between protesters and members of the media to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The case had drawn attention within journalism circles as an example of how photographers and reporters covering protests can become entangled in legal actions — not because of their own conduct, but because of misunderstandings or overly broad application of public-order laws. With the charges now dropped, Decker’s situation may serve as a reference point for media organisations working to protect journalists’ rights during protests and other public demonstrations.

Reference – 

Charges dropped against Tampa photojournalist arrested covering Miami ICE protest

https://www.tampabay.com/news/tampa/2025/12/16/dave-decker-arrest-charges-dropped-miami-ice-protest-immigration/#:~:text=David%20Decker%20was%20originally%20charged,assembly%20and%20obstructing%20a%20highway.&text=All%20charges%20were%20dropped%20Tuesday,Customs%20Enforcement%20center%20in%20Miami.