CHICAGO (AP) — A judge’s blistering 223-page opinion has offered new details from body camera footage about agents’ use of force during a federal immigration crackdown in the Chicago area, dubbed 'Operation Midway Blitz.' U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis recounted clashes between federal agents and protesters, using video evidence to refute government narratives. She described disturbing scenes, including agents using tear gas without warning and tackling protesters while laughing at their injuries.
Judge Ellis expressed shock at the actions of federal officials and issued a preliminary injunction in response to a lawsuit alleging excessive force during a crackdown that resulted in over 3,000 arrests in and around Chicago. Her order restricts agents from using physical force unless necessary.
A federal appeals court temporarily halted this order, calling it too broad but hinted at the potential for a more appropriate order through a quick appeals process.
Ellis's opinion details how agents used indiscriminate and disproportionate tactics against peaceful protesters, often lacking justification for their actions. She recounted how agents made jokes about their aggressive tactics and enjoyed overpowering demonstrators, underlining the lack of discipline and accountability within federal ranks.
The judge also criticized U.S. Border Patrol leader Greg Bovino for providing misleading testimony and challenged numerous agent claims using the body camera footage. Overall, she painted a picture of Chicago that contrasted sharply with the federal portrayal; instead of chaos, she highlighted community members supporting each other against perceived injustices in immigration enforcement.
Judge Ellis expressed shock at the actions of federal officials and issued a preliminary injunction in response to a lawsuit alleging excessive force during a crackdown that resulted in over 3,000 arrests in and around Chicago. Her order restricts agents from using physical force unless necessary.
A federal appeals court temporarily halted this order, calling it too broad but hinted at the potential for a more appropriate order through a quick appeals process.
Ellis's opinion details how agents used indiscriminate and disproportionate tactics against peaceful protesters, often lacking justification for their actions. She recounted how agents made jokes about their aggressive tactics and enjoyed overpowering demonstrators, underlining the lack of discipline and accountability within federal ranks.
The judge also criticized U.S. Border Patrol leader Greg Bovino for providing misleading testimony and challenged numerous agent claims using the body camera footage. Overall, she painted a picture of Chicago that contrasted sharply with the federal portrayal; instead of chaos, she highlighted community members supporting each other against perceived injustices in immigration enforcement.
