Chicago Mayor Directs Police to Investigate Alleged Misconduct by Federal Immigration Agents

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an executive order instructing the city's police department to investigate and document alleged misconduct by federal immigration officers, with the goal of potential prosecution. The directive, titled "ICE on Notice," establishes clear procedures for Chicago police to follow when they witness or receive reports of illegal activities by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. These procedures include documenting federal enforcement actions, preserving body-camera footage, identifying federal supervisory officers on the scene, and reporting any violations of state or local laws by federal agents.

"Nobody is above the law," Johnson stated. "With today’s order, we are putting ICE on notice in our city. Chicago is leading the way as the first city to create infrastructure for holding ICE and CBP agents accountable for crimes against our communities."

The executive order comes amid heightened tensions between federal immigration authorities and local jurisdictions. In Minneapolis, recent federal immigration enforcement operations have resulted in fatal shootings, including the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renée Good, sparking widespread protests and calls for accountability.

In response to these incidents, nine local district attorneys have formed a coalition to assist in prosecuting federal law enforcement officers who violate state laws. Additionally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed legislation to prohibit cooperation agreements between local police departments and ICE.

The Chicago Police Department has been directed to issue guidance and procedures to implement the executive order within 30 days. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office expressed its commitment to protecting public safety, ensuring accountability, and upholding the rule of law alongside law enforcement partners.

Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin responded to the executive order, stating that claims of criminal misconduct by ICE law enforcement are false. DHS emphasized that its personnel receive regular training and are held to the highest professional standards.

This move by Mayor Johnson positions Chicago as the first city in the nation to leverage local authority to pursue legal accountability for misconduct by federal immigration agents.