UPDATE: Senior Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino faces serious allegations for reportedly violating a judge’s order by using tear gas against protesters in Chicago on Thursday. This shocking incident raises urgent questions about federal agents’ conduct amid growing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement.
Authorities confirm that Bovino allegedly threw at least one tear gas canister into a crowd during a protest against federal immigration policies in the Little Village neighborhood. This act may constitute a breach of a temporary restraining order issued by US District Judge Sara Ellis, which restricts aggressive crowd control tactics by federal agents.
The recent court filing, submitted by media groups, protesters, and local clergy, claims Bovino “apparently threw tear gas into a crowd without justification.” The motion cites a Facebook video that reportedly shows him throwing an object towards demonstrators. Although the video does not clarify the events leading up to the incident or confirm if any warnings were given, it highlights a dangerous escalation in federal response to peaceful protests.
Judge Ellis had previously expressed concerns about compliance with her order, which limits the use of force against journalists and civilians during protests. The judge has ordered Bovino to be deposed, with a preliminary injunction hearing scheduled for November 5, 2023. As tensions rise, the court has now expanded his deposition to five hours.
Bovino, who oversees the Border Patrol’s El Centro sector in California, has become a controversial figure as he spearheads federal enforcement efforts in Chicago. His tactics have faced backlash, especially after incidents like a local pastor being struck in the head with a pepper ball by federal agents. In a recent interview with CBS News, Bovino defended the actions of federal agents, claiming their use of force has been “exemplary” and necessary in light of attacks from “extremists and others.”
The protests in Chicago have intensified since the federal crackdown began under the Trump administration’s Operation Midway Blitz, which has resulted in over 1,000 arrests. This operation aims to deter illegal immigration but has drawn widespread criticism for its aggressive tactics.
In response to the increasing unrest, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced the formation of the Illinois Accountability Commission, tasked with documenting federal enforcement abuses and recommending actions to safeguard residents. Pritzker emphasized the need for accountability as federal agents operate in his state without local consent.
The situation is compounded by legal challenges against the Trump administration’s deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago. On Wednesday, US District Court Judge April Perry extended a block against the deployment, citing unresolved concerns about public safety and federal overreach.
As protests continue and scrutiny of federal tactics grows, the implications for community safety and civil liberties remain significant. Observers are called to watch closely as this story develops, especially with a critical hearing approaching on November 5.
Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent situation unfolds.