Federal law enforcement officials launched targeted immigration arrests across Chicago on Sunday, with key members of the Trump administration looking on. The operation sparked questions among local leaders and residents, as multiple agencies coordinated to address individuals described as criminal threats.
Key Facts:
- On Sunday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began “enhanced targeted operations” in the Chicago area.
- Officials from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI, U.S. Marshals, and other federal agencies participated.
- Ald. Daniel La Spata mentioned federal activity in Logan Square but indicated it was outside his ward.
- Several arrests were confirmed in Albany Park, Hermosa, Edgewater, Bolingbrook, and East Chicago.
The Rest of The Story:
The Department of Justice reported that Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove and border czar Tom Homan observed the arrests.
According to a DOJ official, Bove saw one arrest involving an individual who had been driving under the influence and killed a 19-year-old woman.
Bove later stated, “We will not rest until the work is done,” emphasizing federal efforts to protect communities from people he called a national security threat.
Gov. JB Pritzker told CNN it is acceptable to remove “violent criminals” but criticized targeting those who have peacefully lived in the country for many years.
Advocacy groups, including Organized Communities Against Deportations, said some residents avoided detention by requesting judicial warrants.
Dr. Phil is embedded with ICE agts in Chicago
(270) high value targets they're focusing on
Dr. Phil says Tom Homan has (3) objectives
• Close the Border
• Get criminals off the street
• rescue the missing childrenIf I were Pritzker, I would not get in the way pic.twitter.com/jBx5c4IQes
— @Chicago1Ray 🇺🇸 (@Chicago1Ray) January 26, 2025
No workplace or church raids occurred, according to a source.
Federal agencies did not provide further details on the locations or number of arrests.
Homan on Chicago raids: we have ICE, FBI, DEA, HSI… we have the whole of government to fight these public safety threats. pic.twitter.com/0D34SubdnU
— Insurrection Barbie (@DefiyantlyFree) January 26, 2025
Commentary:
These actions can be seen as a welcome measure to maintain public safety.
While the mayor has been the most outspoken opponent of these raids, many Chicago residents appear to support removing those who present a genuine danger.
Beginning in a major city like Chicago is a strong choice, and we pray that everyone involved remains secure throughout the process.
The Bottom Line:
Federal officials have begun an intensified effort to arrest undocumented individuals with criminal records in Chicago.
Supporters believe this promotes safer communities, while critics worry about the broader implications for immigrants living peacefully.
Read Next
– Colombia Refuses Deportation Flights, Suffers Harsh And Immediate Consequences
– California University System Caves After Trump’s EO, Changes Illegal Program That Excluded White Men
– Elon Musk Gets a New Defender Over Ridiculous Claims He Made a Nazi Salute