Chicago Mayor Threatens Legal Action Against ICE Agents
Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed a strong warning to federal officials, stating that he will compel the local police to arrest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents if they appear to breach the law.
Identifying as a “progressive,” Mayor Johnson signed an executive order instructing the Chicago Police Department to “investigate” ICE agents and seek criminal actions against them for any alleged “misconduct.”
According to a statement from City Hall, this order establishes a guideline for holding federal agents accountable when they break local or state laws while operating in Chicago.
“No one is above the law. There is no such thing as ‘absolute immunity’ in America,” Johnson remarked, emphasizing the need for accountability.
He expressed concerns that the conduct of immigration agents under former President Trump’s administration has jeopardized the safety and welfare of Chicago residents. “With today’s order, we are addressing the activities of ICE. Chicago cannot remain passive while federal agents disrupt our communities and instill fear among our residents,” he added.
The mayor’s office outlined that in cases of alleged misconduct by federal immigration officers, the Chicago Police Department will gather evidence and forward felony matters to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Johnson also accused ICE of infringing upon his constitutional rights related to free speech and protest.
Previously, he has taken a stand against ICE through other executive actions. Last October, he established “ICE-free zones” to limit immigration arrests in the city.
The Chicago Police Union has criticized Johnson’s plan, with the Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara Jr. referring to the executive order as “toilet paper.” He stated that it was fortunate for police officers that they wouldn’t have to arrest federal agents.
Catanzara pointed out the lack of understanding in the Mayor’s Office regarding immigration law, asserting that most immigration matters are civil, not criminal. He elaborated that illegal entry is a misdemeanor, while repeated offenses are classified as felonies.
Additionally, Catanzara expressed concern that CPD officers would have to handle reports of ICE misconduct from civilians, suggesting that this could come from activists seeking to undermine ICE for political gain.
Meanwhile, crime continues to be a pressing issue in Chicago, with shootings and deaths on the rise, highlighting the complexity of the city’s law enforcement challenges.
