Menards Employee Fired After Filming Intense DHS Raid in Cicero
A recent incident at Menards in Cicero, Illinois, has sparked significant attention after a security guard was terminated for recording a strenuous Department of Homeland Security (DHS) immigration raid. Ricardo Mendez, the security personnel, documented the event on October 28, 2025, as masked officers arrived at the store in unmarked vehicles.
Details of the DHS Raid
On that Tuesday afternoon, Mendez noticed Border Patrol agents aggressively detaining a Hispanic man in the parking lot. As agents smashed the window of a Ford pickup truck with batons, Mendez decided to film the unfolding events to fulfill his civic duty. He was inspired to do so by calls from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker for transparency during such operations.
Consequences for Filming
Despite his intentions, Mendez faced serious repercussions at work. After being instructed by a supervisor to stop filming and return to his post, he was sent home. Following his refusal to comply, Mendez was fired later that day. The termination letter cited “insubordination” and reported that he had left his designated post and argued with an ICE employee.
Altercations and Threats
During the incident, eyewitnesses noted that DHS agents threatened onlookers with tear gas if they attempted to intervene. Mendez’s footage captures the chaos, including an ICE agent allegedly making an obscene gesture towards him while leaving the scene.
Background on Menards
Menards is known as a prominent home-improvement store chain in the Midwest, owned by John Menard Jr., a notable donor to Republican political campaigns. The recent DHS raid reflects a broader trend of heightened immigration enforcement in Chicago, particularly under the Trump administration, which has prioritized aggressive deportation efforts.
Operation Midway Blitz
Since September, “Operation Midway Blitz” has intensified Border Patrol’s presence in Chicago. The operation has led to various confrontations, including instances of alleged excessive force. A federal judge has since ordered Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino to regularly submit use-of-force documentation for review.
Official Responses
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the raid focused on Santos Mena-Flores, identified as a “criminal illegal alien” with multiple previous arrests. According to McLaughlin, the officers acted to prevent potential harm during the confrontation.
The situation continues to unfold, drawing significant media attention and public scrutiny. Mendez remains unapologetic for his actions, asserting that he would repeat his decision to document the raid if confronted with a similar situation in the future.
