CHICAGO (AP) — A judge’s blistering 223-page opinion has offered a cache of striking new details from body camera footage about agents’ use of force during a federal immigration crackdown in the Chicago area dubbed 'Operation Midway Blitz.'
U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis’ opinion recounts many high-profile clashes between federal agents and protesters, using body camera footage to refute government narratives from court documents and press releases. She describes agents launching tear gas without warning, aiming rubber rounds at reporters, tackling protesters, and laughing as blood oozed from a demonstrator’s ear—incidents that Ellis states contradict the government’s accounts.
Ellis expressed surprise that federal officials directed her to specific videos that later showed agents violating orders she had put in place.
The opinion outlines her findings in issuing a preliminary injunction earlier this month, following a lawsuit filed by news outlets and protesters claiming federal officers employed excessive force during an immigration crackdown, resulting in over 3,000 arrests.
Among other restrictions, Ellis’ order sought to limit agents from using physical force and chemical agents except to prevent immediate threats, denouncing current practices as violations of constitutional rights.
A federal appeals court recently temporarily halted the order, criticizing it as “overbroad” but noted a more tailored order might be forthcoming.
Judge says footage shows excessive force
The opinion highlights evidence of indiscriminate force used by agents, including tear gas and rubber bullets, without justification, and depicts chaotic moments where agents shot flash-bang grenades into fleeing crowds, kicked downed protesters, and pointed guns threateningly.
Ellis accused agents of not adhering to previous orders and described instances of extreme disregard for human safety. Agents were reportedly seen exhibiting joy while engaging in aggressive tactics, showcasing a troubling detachment from their responsibilities.
Judge criticizes Border Patrol leader
The judge also called out senior U.S. Border Patrol official Greg Bovino for lying and being evasive during his testimony. Ellis effectively debunked agents’ claims, illustrating the disparity between their accounts and the recorded evidence.
Her findings collectively portray a federal narrative fundamentally lacking in credibility, stressing a community perspective decidedly different from the law enforcement's portrayal of chaos in the streets.
Pride in Chicago
Ellis’s opinion reflects a pride in Chicago, showcasing neighbors rallying together against excessive law enforcement presence rather than the rioting suggested by federal authorities, promoting a narrative of community solidarity and resilience.
In highlighting the love and care of local residents, Ellis challenges the characterizations of federal agents, calling for reflection on the perceived relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
