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Federal Court Strikes Down Riot Claims in Chicago Immigration Protests
In a groundbreaking decision on November 6, 2025, U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis delivered a firm rebuke to the federal government’s narrative around immigration enforcement operations in Chicago. Ruling from the Northern District of Illinois, Judge Ellis issued a preliminary injunction against U.S. immigration authorities, citing constitutional violations tied to excessive use of force during recent protests. This ruling not only calls into question the government’s depiction of Chicago as riot-prone but also underscores the importance of safeguarding First Amendment rights—even amid contentious immigration crackdowns.
Full article source: Reuters – Diana Novak Jones, November 6, 2025
Judicial Pushback Against Federal Narrative and Force
The decision stems from testimonies and video evidence that contradicted federal agents’ accounts of violence at local protests. Judge Ellis found key immigration officials, including Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, to have misrepresented facts—most notably, Bovino admitted under oath to lying about the timeline of being struck with a rock, a claim he used to justify deploying tear gas.
Agents operating under “Operation Midway Blitz,” a Trump administration initiative, had employed tear gas, pepper balls, and other anti-riot weapons in residential neighborhoods, often targeting journalists, clergy, and protesters in predominantly immigrant communities. The judge concluded that these tactics chilled constitutionally protected rights of speech, assembly, and religious expression.
Injunction Protects Protesters and Limits Federal Action
The injunction prohibits immigration agents from:
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Using tear gas and anti-riot weapons except in clear, imminent danger.
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Arresting or threatening journalists.
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Operating without visible identification and body cameras.
This order follows a previous temporary restraining order that expired the same day. Judge Ellis had also attempted to hold Commander Bovino accountable with daily testimony requirements, though that directive was overturned by an appellate court.
Despite government objections, including Homeland Security’s claims that agents faced threats from “rioters, gangbangers and terrorists,” the court remained focused on the factual inconsistencies and constitutional implications. Ellis notably emphasized that “the Chicagoland area is not ransacked by rioters” as federal claims implied, but rather composed of neighbors supporting one another.
Testimony Reveals Harsh Reality for Immigrant Communities
Multiple witnesses recounted trauma during the protests, including clergy being shot with pepper balls while praying and civilians having guns aimed at them after filming federal activity. These testimonies further illustrated the excessive force and intimidation used by immigration agents—elements Judge Ellis deemed incompatible with the protections afforded by the Constitution.
The Justice Department’s argument that protesters’ ongoing participation nullified any claim of fear was also rejected. Ellis clarified that courage under pressure does not erase the legal relevance of a chilling effect.
How Spar & Bernstein Can Support You During Immigration Crackdowns
For immigrants, activists, and even legal residents caught in the crosshairs of sweeping federal operations, this ruling signals a turning point—but also a reminder of ongoing risk. At Spar & Bernstein, we recognize the complexities of immigration enforcement and the legal landscape surrounding your rights.
Whether you are a community leader, journalist, or undocumented individual targeted by aggressive immigration tactics, our attorneys are here to protect your constitutional freedoms. From representing you in immigration court to filing civil rights claims when your freedoms are violated, we are committed to fighting for justice—and to ensuring accountability from federal agencies.
Source: Reuters Article, Nov 6, 2025 by Diana Novak Jones
Let us help you protect your rights. Contact Spar & Bernstein today.
