Chicago Mayor Takes Action Against Federal Immigration Agents
In a notable move, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order on Saturday aimed at investigating and potentially prosecuting federal immigration agents who may have violated laws in the city.
The initiative, dubbed “ICE On Notice,” instructs officers from the Chicago Police Department (CPD) to report any suspected misconduct by federal immigration officials. They are also to forward findings of any felony infractions to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for consideration of prosecution.
“No one is above the law. There is no such thing as ‘absolute immunity’ in the United States,” Johnson remarked, emphasizing the accountability of federal agents.
He expressed concern over the aggressive tactics of federal immigration agents during the Trump administration, stating that these actions are jeopardizing the safety and well-being of Chicago residents. “With today’s order, we are calling the city’s ICE. Chicago cannot stand idly by,” he added, criticizing the federal government’s approach.
Johnson noted that Chicago is becoming the first city in the nation to pursue legal accountability for alleged misconduct by federal immigration officials. He accused these agents of infringing on constitutionally protected rights and causing destabilization within communities by operating with little oversight.
The executive order outlines specific protocols for CPD officers if they witness or are informed of federal officers engaging in unlawful behavior. Officers are instructed to document these activities, retain body camera footage, and confirm the identity of any federal supervisor present.
They are also required to draft incident reports and provide assistance to anyone injured and call for medical aid if necessary.
Interestingly, this executive order comes amid reports of a potential increase in migration to Chicago and nearby areas later this spring. Johnson’s decision follows several high-profile confrontations involving federal agents, one of which included the tragic shooting of Silverio Villegas González by an ICE agent in September 2025.
In another incident, federal Border Patrol agents shot Marimar Martinez multiple times after an altercation involving a vehicle collision.
Johnson has also drawn attention to other tragic incidents in Minneapolis, where two individuals were shot and killed by federal immigration officers during raids. These events underscore the mayor’s urgency for oversight and accountability in federal immigration operations.
