More than a dozen rallies across the state were peace. Police used pepper balls and smoke on one group in Denver.

Thousands of Coloradans are expected to turn out on Saturday to stage protests against recent immigration crackdowns and executive orders from the Trump administration that have led to violent

DENVER — Eighteen people were arrested Tuesday night after protesters got into confrontations with Denver Police during demonstrations, prompting Mayor Mike Johnston to warn that violent actions could invite the type of federal intervention President Donald Trump has threatened to deploy in cities.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said the city doesn’t need the National Guard or federal enforcement to handle demonstrations and protests, and will oppose it.

More than a dozen rallies were planned across the state Saturday to speak out against a host of issues from immigration enforcement actions to attacks on free speech and LGBTQ rights.