Pastor Sues ICE Over Video of ‘Chemical Pellets’ Shooting at Protest

Rev. David Black, a Chicago pastor, has filed a lawsuit against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the use of excessive force during a protest. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Illinois submitted the lawsuit this week, alleging violent tactics were employed against peaceful demonstrators outside an ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois.

Lawsuit Against ICE for Use of Chemical Pellets

The lawsuit centers around events from a protest held last month. Video evidence reportedly shows Rev. Black experiencing violent treatment, including being pepper-sprayed and struck with pellet projectiles. In his social media posts, Black accused ICE agents of assaulting him, claiming he was struck seven times with chemical pellets, including in the head.

Allegations of Violence and Misconduct

According to Black and the ACLU, agents failed to give proper orders or warnings before addressing protesters. He described the agents as using heavy tactics to “isolate and assault” demonstrators who appeared vulnerable. His statements emphasize a concern over the treatment of peaceful protestors amid U.S. governmental actions.

• Key Events:
  • Protest against ICE in Broadview, Illinois.
  • Rev. Black claims he was assaulted with chemical pellets.
• Lawsuit Filed By:
  • American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois.
• Defendants Named:
  • Kristi Noem
  • Todd Lyons, Acting ICE Director
  • Pam Bondi, Attorney General
  • Gregory Bovino, Customs and Border Protection Commissioner
  • Donald Trump, President

Concerns Over Protest Suppression

The ACLU contends that the government has aggressively suppressed free speech at the protest site, employing dangerous and indiscriminate tactics. These included the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, pepper balls, and flash grenades, which they describe as unwarranted and disproportionate responses to peaceful assembly.

Rev. Black characterized the situation as emblematic of the treatment ordinary citizens face from the administration. He has publicly called for accountability from those in power and advocated for transforming the ICE facility into a space for community benefit, such as a preschool.

This case highlights ongoing tensions between federal law enforcement and activists advocating for human rights and immigrant justice throughout the United States.