According to multiple sources, Greg Bovino, the commander-at-large for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is anticipated to leave the city of Chicago in the coming days. This news has raised questions about the future leadership of the CBP in the area and the ongoing efforts of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to manage immigration enforcement within the city.
Despite Bovino's impending departure, sources confirm that the Department of Homeland Security will maintain a significant presence in Chicago. This assurance comes from DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin, who took to social media to clarify that the agency is not withdrawing from the city. In her post on X, she emphasized, “We aren’t leaving Chicago,” as part of an effort to quell public concern regarding immigration enforcement in the city.
Bovino's tenure has not been without controversy. He faced significant backlash following a protest in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, where a video surfaced showing him throwing a gas canister at demonstrators without providing any verbal warning. This action was deemed a violation of a temporary restraining order issued by a U.S. district judge, which limited the use of force by federal agents during such events.
U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis criticized Bovino for his actions and his admission of lying about a previous incident involving rock-throwing, which was used to justify the deployment of tear gas against protesters. In light of these events, Judge Ellis issued a preliminary injunction that further restricts the use of force during immigration arrests and protests. This incident is particularly significant as it plays a central role in the ongoing court proceedings that challenge the tactics employed by immigration agents during the Trump administration's operations in Chicago, which commenced in September.
In response to the fallout from the protest, the DHS defended Bovino’s actions by claiming that a Border Patrol transport van carrying undocumented immigrants was under attack by demonstrators. This defense highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between law enforcement and communities impacted by immigration policies.
The situation surrounding Greg Bovino’s departure and the ongoing enforcement of immigration policies in Chicago remains fluid. As the story develops, stakeholders, including community members and advocacy groups, will be closely monitoring the actions of the Department of Homeland Security and their impact on local communities. For further updates, stay tuned to reliable news sources as more information becomes available.
