DOJ launches review of Portland Thorns match incident involving fan removals
The U.S. Department of Justice is examining a confrontation at a Portland Thorns women's soccer game where supporters were escorted out after a clash with other spectators, raising potential First Amendment concerns.
The U.S. Department of Justice said it is reviewing a confrontation that occurred during a Portland Thorns match at Providence Park, where a group of supporters displaying a "Save Women’s Sports" banner were removed by stadium security after an altercation with other fans carrying transgender flags. A department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the agency will act if the facts and law warrant it. A DOJ official added that the incident appears to raise viewpoint discrimination and First Amendment issues rather than sex-discrimination concerns.
Portland Police Bureau Sergeant Kevin Allen said off-duty officers hired for the event were not involved in the removals, but were called in when individuals refused to leave and blocked an exit. Police separated the opposing groups briefly for public safety and recorded the incident on body-worn cameras. Two potential crimes—alleged harassment and alleged vandalism—have been reported, though no injuries or arrests were noted.
The clash unfolded in the second half of the game against the North Carolina Courage after roughly 20 spectators revealed shirts and unfurled a large banner. Activist Amy Sousa and commentator Brandi Kruse, who helped organize previous rallies, were among those removed. Sousa told OutKick that she and other attendees filed police reports, describing being struck with flagpoles. Security also restrained Kruse’s arm while escorting her.
OutKick reporter Matt Calkins reported that his phone was knocked from his hand and a beverage was spilled on him during the incident. Security director Jim McCausland declined to comment. The stadium is owned by the City of Portland and operated by Peregrine Sports, while the Thorns are owned by RAJ Sports.
Legal experts note that viewpoint discrimination involves government actions that restrict expression because of the opinion expressed, which the Supreme Court generally prohibits. Federal law also permits criminal prosecution when officials acting under color of law deprive individuals of protected rights. The DOJ has not specified which statutes might apply or announced any charges. OutKick has sought comment from the Thorns, the stadium operator, and city officials but has not received a response.