Border Patrol’s Gregory Bovino Ordered to Appear Before Chicago Federal Judge
A federal court in Chicago has mandated that U.S. Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino appear in a hearing next week. This decision follows allegations that Bovino violated a temporary restraining order regarding federal agents’ tactics during protests in Illinois.
Details of Court Order
U.S. District Court Judge Sara Ellis has ordered Bovino’s appearance, emphasizing her ongoing concerns about the aggressive tactics employed by federal agents during immigration enforcement operations in Chicago.
Initially, Judge Ellis required Bovino to give a deposition in a closed setting. However, the circumstances have changed, and he is now compelled to testify in an open court session.
Background of the Allegations
A coalition of journalists, protesters, and clergy previously sued the Trump administration, alleging Bovino’s infringement on the restraining order. This order restricts federal agents from using specific methods to suppress protests or impede media coverage.
The complaint referenced a video in which Bovino allegedly deployed tear gas during a confrontation with protesters in the Little Village neighborhood. The incident occurred near the Discount Mall at the intersection of 26th and Whipple Streets.
- Incident Date: Recent confrontation
- Location: Little Village, Chicago
- Key Figure: Gregory Bovino
- Complaint: Use of tear gas against protesters
Details from the Video
The video, streamed live on Facebook, shows Bovino in uniform but without headgear, throwing at least one canister of tear gas towards a crowd of protesters. As captured on camera, he appears to retrieve another canister from his belt amid the chaos.
The plaintiffs included evidence from the video in their filing, asserting that his actions breached multiple paragraphs of the court’s order dated October 9.
Prohibitions Under the Court’s Order
The court’s order prohibits federal agents from:
- Arresting or threatening to arrest journalists without probable cause.
- Using physical force against individuals unless there is a crime committed.
- Issuing crowd dispersal orders without exigent circumstances.
- Utilizing riot control weapons, like tear gas, unless there’s an immediate safety threat.
Bovino’s Defense
In a conversation with CBS News, Bovino defended the actions of the Border Patrol. He stated that agents have executed nearly 2,700 arrests since September 6, describing their use of force as justified amidst what he termed “absolute chaos in the streets.”
Bovino highlighted the types of individuals apprehended, including members of the Latin Kings and alleged terrorists, reiterating his agency’s commitment to their role in public safety.
The upcoming hearing will undoubtedly draw attention as it addresses the balance between immigration enforcement tactics and civil rights protections in Chicago.
