Judge Reveals Disturbing Evidence of Excessive Force in Chicago Immigration Crackdown

Sat Nov 22 2025 07:07:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A comprehensive 223-page ruling from U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis uncovers shocking footage showing federal agents using unjustifiable force during 'Operation Midway Blitz' in Chicago. The court's findings challenge the government's narrative and highlight disregard for protesters' constitutional rights.

The opinion by Judge Sara Ellis presents damning evidence from body camera footage regarding the treatment of protesters during a federal immigration crackdown in Chicago. The judge's observations raise questions about the federal agents' adherence to legal guidelines, revealing excessive use of force, including tear gas and rubber bullets, as well as mocking behavior. These findings prompt serious scrutiny of the federal government's approach to immigration enforcement in the city.

CHICAGO (AP) — A recent 223-page ruling by U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis sheds light on unsettling details regarding the use of force by federal agents during a controversial immigration operation in the Chicago area, dubbed 'Operation Midway Blitz.'

The extensive opinion recounts various instances of excessive force, as depicted in body camera footage. Judge Ellis criticized the actions of agents, refuting claims made by federal officials through their testimony and press releases. According to the footage, agents engaged in actions such as deploying tear gas without warning, firing rubber rounds at journalists, and tackling peaceful demonstrators, all while displaying a disturbing level of indifference.

Judge Ellis noted specific videos of agents failing to adhere to her orders limiting the use of force, expressing astonishment at the federal officials' complete disregard for these restrictions.

The opinion came in response to a preliminary injunction requested by news organizations and protest groups that accused federal agents of using excessive force. Over 3,000 arrests have been recorded during the operation since September, leading to heightened scrutiny of the tactics employed.

While federal agents argued the need for such measures, Judge Ellis stated her findings indicated a blatant violation of constitutional rights for both protesters and journalists. A temporary halt was later issued by a federal appeals court, labeling her order as 'overbroad' but hinting at a potential for more precise rulings in the future.

The evidence presented in the opinion includes accounts of agents throwing tear gas canisters with enthusiasm, verbal threats made toward protesters, and even a disturbing lack of accountability, with some agents appearing to mock the individuals they were meant to be protecting.

Furthermore, Judge Ellis criticized senior Border Patrol official Greg Bovino for his evasive testimony regarding incidents that occurred during the protests. She observed discrepancies in his statements and questioned the credibility of the federal agents' narrative throughout the entire operation.

In stark contrast to federal descriptions of violent protests, Judge Ellis portrayed Chicago residents as defenders of community and justice, who gathered to document law enforcement actions and support individuals facing immigration detention.