Governor J.B. Pritzker has appointed Jimmy L. Arce and Ric Estrada as the newest members of the Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC). The commission was established to address concerns about federal enforcement actions, including reports of excessive force and violent conduct by federal agents in Chicago and across Illinois.
The new appointments are expected to strengthen the IAC’s ability to document and address these issues. The commission’s mandate includes compiling a public record on incidents involving federal law enforcement and pursuing justice for affected communities.
“Since I signed the Executive Order, with guidance from the Commissioners, the Illinois Department of Human Rights has been diligently working to set the foundation for this truly ground-breaking work to bring accountability for the Trump Administration’s immigration enforcement actions,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The appointments of Jimmy and Ric to the Commission round out this incredible team of public servants committed to demanding answers and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the people of Illinois.”
Ruben Castillo, Chair of the Illinois Accountability Commission, stated: “We are honored to welcome two individuals whose expertise directly supports the Commission’s mission. Jimmy and Ric bring complementary perspectives that will strengthen our ability to document, assess, and recommend reforms in alignment with the Executive Order.”
Commissioner Jimmy L. Arce commented: “I’m honored to serve on the Illinois Accountability Commission. This work is about standing up for communities and making sure their experiences are heard. I’m eager to help document the facts and push for meaningful reforms that protect people across Illinois.”
Ric Estrada added: “Illinoisans have been harmed by federal law enforcement actions, and they deserve accountability. I’m committed to making sure the Commission listens to communities across the state and turns their experiences into real, meaningful change.”
Alongside these appointments, Hina Mahmood has been named Executive Director; Ahmed Baset as Lead Commission Counsel; and Matthew J. Piers as Special Counsel. The commission is building its organizational structure with plans for further staff onboarding in coming weeks.
Outreach efforts have already begun as members engage with community partners while analyzing existing public information regarding ongoing litigation connected to federal law enforcement activities.
Jimmy L. Arce brings experience as a former federal prosecutor involved in high-profile civil rights investigations, notably contributing to oversight measures following an investigation into Chicago Police Department practices. Ric Estrada leads Metropolitan Family Services—a major human-services provider—and offers more than 30 years’ experience in nonprofit leadership focused on families impacted by government policies.
The newly hired staff also have significant backgrounds in social justice advocacy, prosecution, complex litigation, philanthropy, government service, and civil rights work.
The commission aims not only to investigate but also recommend reforms designed to protect residents throughout Illinois from potential abuses linked with federal law enforcement activities.
