Judge Orders Trump Administration to Address Strategies for Handling Chicago Protests

A federal judge in Illinois has raised significant concerns regarding the adherence of federal law enforcement agents to her orders aimed at reducing violent interactions during protests in Chicago. US District Court Judge Sara Ellis expressed her frustration during a recent hearing, noting the ongoing reports of aggressive encounters despite her previously issued temporary restraining order.

Concerns Over Compliance with Court Order

Judge Ellis emphasized her dissatisfaction with the actions of federal agents since she ordered them to avoid violent confrontations with protesters and journalists. “I’m really not happy,” she stated, highlighting her alarm at incidents reported in news media.

Body Camera Requirement for Federal Agents

In response to these issues, Judge Ellis mandated that all federal agents equipped with body cameras must activate them during interactions with immigration protesters. “Body cameras capture events leading up to incidents,” she explained, reinforcing the necessity of transparency.

• Initially, all agents were to wear cameras, but flexibility was allowed after attorney Sean Skedzielewski cited logistical challenges.
• The Department of Justice raised concerns about the resource implications of managing body camera footage, which they argued is complex.

Legal Action by Journalists and Protesters

The judge’s temporary restraining order came after a coalition of journalists and protesters sued the Trump administration. They claimed that peaceful demonstrators were being targeted, with several reporters reporting incidents of violence against them from federal agents.

Incidents of Non-compliance and Accountability

Since the issuance of the restraining order, plaintiffs reported at least two incidents indicating that federal agents may not have followed the stipulations. Judge Ellis pointed to a confrontation involving the US Border Patrol that took place in Chicago following a traffic accident.

Ellis highlighted the established policies of the Chicago Police Department concerning vehicle pursuits, urging federal agents to adhere to safety protocols during protests.

Field Director Required to Testify

In continuing efforts to ensure compliance, Judge Ellis has summoned the field director for Operation Midway Blitz to appear in court. She intends to address the deployment of tear gas during protests and the lack of warnings prior to its use.

• The original restraining order prohibits agents from targeting journalists who do not interfere with law enforcement actions.
• Tear gas and less-lethal munitions are banned unless there’s an immediate threat to safety.

State and Federal Tensions

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed skepticism about the enforcement of Judge Ellis’ order, citing ongoing instances of force used by ICE against peaceful protesters. “ICE is causing this mayhem,” Pritzker asserted.

In a related matter, a federal judge recently blocked President Trump from deploying National Guard troops in Chicago, a decision the administration is currently appealing. The situation in Chicago remains fluid, with ongoing developments expected.