Prairie State Wire

Federal authorities in Chicago have announced ongoing criminal immigration enforcement operations in the city. United States Attorney Andrew S. Boutros for the Northern District of Illinois, along with leaders from several federal law enforcement agencies, released statements addressing recent actions and their commitment to maintaining order.

“As U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, my office will enforce all federal criminal laws and protect our federal employees and property. Assistant U.S. Attorneys will staff the FBI-led command post on a daily basis to monitor real-time developments and take swift action as needed when criminal offenders assault, obstruct, or impede law enforcement personnel or destroy federal property. During this surge, we have filed federal charges against more than 12 individuals and continue to review cases for additional criminal charges. The people of Chicago deserve safe streets and peaceful neighborhoods, and we will deliver justice on their behalf,” said Boutros.

Federal law enforcement leaders also reinforced this message: “We speak with one voice when we say that we expect any protest or assembly in Chicago to remain peaceful. There is no place for violence against law enforcement officers, obstruction of justice, or destruction of federal property. Any criminal actions taken against the brave men and women in uniform will be met with swift criminal prosecution. Our agencies will continue to work closely with each other to execute federal law fully and completely.” This statement was attributed collectively to Douglas S. DePodesta (FBI), Matthew J. Scarpino (Homeland Security Investigations), Russell Hott (Enforcement and Removal Operations), LaFonda Sutton-Burke (Customs and Border Protection), Christopher Amon (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives), Shane Catone (DEA), and LaDon A. Reynolds (U.S. Marshals Service).

Boutros further emphasized: “As I have emphasized repeatedly (see here, here, and here), we are a law and order district. We vigorously prosecute crimes in all program areas. We will not hesitate to hold accountable those who attack and undermine the rule of law, including by resorting to violence and criminal mischief to interfere, obstruct, or impede the important work of the federal government as it is conducted in the Northern District of Illinois. The entire federal law enforcement partnership in Chicago also thanks Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall, all of the other judges in the Northern District of Illinois, and Clerk of Court Thomas G. Bruton for their leadership and hard work in ensuring that Chicago’s federal courtrooms remain open to handle the increased volume of criminal cases being presented before the Court for adjudication.”