ICE Arrests Illegal Immigrant Acting as Police Officer in Illinois

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently detained an individual who had been functioning as a police officer in Illinois, despite being in the country illegally.

Radul Bojovic, originally from Montenegro, was working with the Hanover Park Police Department in the Chicago suburbs. He had overstayed his B2 tourist visa, which expired on March 31, 2015, leaving him in the U.S. without legal status for over a decade.

In a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, it was noted, “Bojovic has not left the country as required and has remained illegally since his visa expired.”

The arrest was part of a focused enforcement initiative referred to as Operation Midway Blitz.

In a recent tweet, a representative from DHS criticized the state of Illinois for allowing individuals without proper documentation to hold such positions. It was highlighted that Bojovic had become a sworn officer despite not having legal status.

Earlier this year, the Hanover Park Police Department announced Bojovic’s graduation from the Suburban Law Enforcement Academy, suggesting he was quite new to the force. Records indicate he was authorized to potentially earn a salary of nearly $79,000.

Further data showed that his income contributed over $205,000 in taxpayer liability for the year, including a significant amount deducted for taxes.

Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS Assistant Secretary, sharply criticized Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, stating that his policies allowed undocumented immigrants to infiltrate law enforcement. She questioned, “What kind of police force is it that grants badges and weapons to those who have broken the law?”

McLaughlin added that under the previous administration, there was a stronger emphasis on restoring law and order in policing.

Kristi Noem, the DHS Secretary, echoed similar sentiments, referring to the state’s governance as “totally corrupt” under Pritzker, while blaming political leaders for permitting illegal immigrants to occupy positions in police departments.

She remarked that sanctuary policies have put American communities and schools at risk.

In response, Pritzker condemned the ICE operation, suggesting it was symptomatic of escalating authoritarianism linked to the Trump administration. He described current events as “dangerous times” for democracy.

The governor expressed concerns over political tactics and the implications of such initiatives on the state’s governance.

Since the commencement of Operation Midway Blitz, reports indicate that around 1,500 arrests were made in the greater Chicago area, demonstrating the operation’s extensive reach.