Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino Testifies in Chicago Court: Live Updates

A recent court hearing in Chicago focused on U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) handling of protests, particularly regarding the use of force and tear gas during Operation Midway Blitz. Judge Sara Ellis presided over the case, emphasizing the need for CBP agents to adhere to legal and ethical standards while enforcing laws.

Overview of Court Proceedings

The hearing included testimony from Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino, which concluded shortly before noon. Judge Ellis asked if there were any further matters to discuss. The plaintiffs had no additional requests, while government lawyers indicated their disagreement with the judge’s previous rulings, prompting Ellis to express her awareness of their position.

Temporary Restraining Order Adjustments

• Plains reported 13 instances of tear gas deployment in Illinois since the initiation of Operation Midway Blitz, with seven occurring after a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) was issued.
• Judge Ellis declined to modify the TRO, although she expressed her expectation for all parties to act in good faith.

Bovino’s Testimony and Responsibilities

During the proceedings, Ellis mandated Bovino to submit a chart detailing all arrests made under Operation Midway Blitz by the end of the week. Specifically, she requested reports that exclude immigration-related arrests and focus on civilian arrests during the operation.

Moreover, Judge Ellis ordered daily meetings with Bovino to discuss developments leading up to the November 5 preliminary injunction hearing. These meetings aim to ensure transparency and accountability, covering aspects of the operation and standards of conduct for agents.

Reporting Requirements and Body Camera Compliance

• For every use of force, agents must file a report within one hour to a supervisor.
• Reports should be documented within 24 hours and finalized within 72 hours, covering actions taken since September 2.
• Ellis emphasized agents must wear body cameras, with compliance required by the end of the week.

Concerns About Use of Tear Gas

Judge Ellis expressed serious concerns regarding the use of tear gas, particularly its impact on children during community gatherings. She highlighted incidents where families faced tear gas during a Halloween event, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to ensure community safety without resorting to excessive force.

Violations of Temporary Restraining Orders

The hearing reviewed multiple allegations of violations related to the use of force at protests in neighborhoods like Little Village and Lakeview. Judge Ellis underscored the importance of proper identification for agents and the ethical use of riot control methods, especially in the vicinity of children and non-threatening individuals.

As the hearing concluded, Judge Ellis reiterated her commitment to uphold citizens’ rights while allowing CBP to perform its duties in a lawful and humane manner. The next hearing is set for November 5, when the TRO will remain in effect as discussions continue regarding the agents’ conduct and operational guidelines.