The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehended many high-priority criminals in Chicago as part of Operation Midway Blitz. The initiative is reportedly aimed at illegal immigrants with violent criminal records. Critics contended that the operation would jail non-criminals and erode public confidence, prompting significant opposition from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin noted, “Agents continue to risk their lives and work without compensation as a result of the Democrats’ government shutdown. We will not let political games or violence against law enforcement deter us from keeping America safe again.” According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, “Our brave men and women in law enforcement are under attack by violent anarchists who seek to destroy America.”
DHS recorded more than 1,000 Illinois detentions as part of the effort. Johnson labeled it federal overreach and prevented federal officers from entering city property without a warrant.
Chicago and Illinois filed a lawsuit to stop the deployment of the National Guard for immigration enforcement, claiming state sovereignty and strained community ties.
Chicago ICE field director Russell Hott stated, “The operational tempo is going to continue until we exhaust our target list,” adding that agents are “focused on targeted enforcement” Hott said, “Arrests are made based on probable cause.” He added, “I think folks in Chicago want to feel free and safe to walk around and be able to visit and explore without fear of being attacked, assaulted or otherwise victimized.”
Leave a Reply