Judge Slams Border Chief Over Tear Gas Use During Kids’ Parade

UPDATE: A Chicago judge has sharply criticized US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino following the deployment of tear gas during a neighborhood incident that endangered children preparing for a Halloween parade. The tense exchange occurred on October 31, 2023, when US District Court Judge Sara Ellis condemned the actions of federal agents, which violated a prior court order prohibiting such chemical use unless officers faced immediate danger.

During the court appearance, Judge Ellis expressed outrage over multiple instances of force used by federal agents, specifically referencing a recent incident where agents allegedly pointed a gun at a peaceful protestor. “This violates my restraining order on its face,” Ellis stated, addressing Bovino’s lack of knowledge about the situation.

The most alarming incident involved the tear gas deployment in Old Irving Park, just as families were gathering for the annual Halloween festivities. “These kids, you can imagine, their sense of safety was shattered,” Ellis remarked, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on the community. “It is going to take a long time to come back, if ever.”

The controversial enforcement operation targeted Luis Villegas, an undocumented immigrant who was taken into custody while working in the area. Reports indicate that agents deployed tear gas after residents confronted them, demanding they leave. A witness, a former Cook County prosecutor, reported that the agents faced no imminent threat.

Ellis ordered Bovino to appear in her courtroom every day moving forward to report on his agents’ activities in the district. The judge also mandated that all officers be equipped with body cameras and required submission of use-of-force reports and footage by Friday.

As the community grapples with the fallout, Ellis set a hearing for November 5, 2023, to discuss making her restraining order against riot control munitions permanent. “Kids should feel they can enjoy Halloween without the fear of getting tear-gassed,” she asserted. “That’s not how any of us want to live.”

This situation highlights the ongoing tension between federal enforcement actions and community safety, raising urgent questions about the appropriateness of using riot control measures in civilian settings. As the judge’s orders take effect, many will be watching closely to see how federal authorities adjust their strategies in response to community concerns.