Border Patrol Commander Now Reporting to Judge Daily
Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino is now required to report directly to Judge Sarah Ellis every day, following a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. This shift comes after the court rejected an unusual order made by Ellis earlier this week.
Ellis’s order was sparked by allegations that Border Patrol agents in Chicago had violated a temporary restraining order. This order had barred the use of tear gas against violent crowds protesting against them. Specifically, Bovino was accused of deploying tear gas canisters during tensions in the Little Village area.
“This order significantly complicates the executive responsibility of maintaining proper enforcement of immigration laws,”
Bovino expressed his readiness to comply with the court’s requirements, but the circuit court criticized the daily reporting as “unusual and unusually disruptive.” It further stated that Ellis’s ruling “significantly” hampers immigration law enforcement efforts by placing senior officials on constant standby.
The circuit court’s ruling emphasized that the order interferes with the executive function necessary for enforcing immigration policy. In light of this, Bovino has continued to assert that the mission will be accomplished, indicating a commitment to addressing ongoing concerns—specifically, that nearly 3,000 individuals are now involved.
Will Chamberlain, senior counsel for the Article III Project, commented on Ellis’s ruling, labeling it as “ridiculous.” He argued that judges should not exert control over senior Department of Homeland Security officials, asserting that executive power is meant to reside with the President, not the judiciary.
Before testifying, the Department of Homeland Security presented body camera and drone footage detailing the confrontations faced by Border Patrol agents in Little Village. Ellis noted concerns that officials did not issue the mandated two warnings before employing crowd control tactics such as tear gas.
Bovino has actively participated in arrest operations and crowd control, including incidents near the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility.
Ultimately, Bovino conveyed his determination to fulfill the agency’s mission, stating, “As we move forward, we’re ramping up our efforts. We’re not deterred by the challenges ahead.”
