ICE Broadens Chicago Arrests Amid Force Allegations, Agency Denies Misconduct

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has vigorously denied allegations of using excessive force during a recent surge in immigration arrests across Chicago, even as the agency confirms a significant broadening of its enforcement efforts. The arrests, primarily targeting individuals previously released from state or local custody, have sparked alarm among immigrant rights advocates who report instances of agents using tasers and deploying chemical irritants, particularly during early morning operations.

The controversy escalated following an incident on October 24, where ICE agents attempted to arrest an individual in Chicago.

According to reports from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), agents deployed a taser and chemical spray during the encounter. ICE spokesperson Nicole Alberico, however, offered a starkly different account, stating that the individual actively resisted arrest and assaulted an ICE officer, necessitating the use of "mission-appropriate force." Alberico emphasized that ICE officers are trained professionals who prioritize public safety and exercise restraint, employing force only when necessary and in compliance with federal guidelines.

This particular arrest, she clarified, was part of an ongoing operation targeting a non-citizen who had been previously released from Cook County Jail, despite a detainer request from ICE.

Alberico underscored that ICE routinely issues detainers for individuals facing criminal charges who are amenable to deportation, highlighting the agency's commitment to apprehending those deemed a threat to public safety. She also pointed out that the individual in question had prior convictions for multiple violent offenses, including aggravated battery of a police officer, assault, and domestic battery.

The surge in enforcement began in late September and has seen a notable increase in arrests of individuals who were not initially targeted but were present during operations.

In one instance, an individual with a prior removal order, who was present during an operation to apprehend another person, was also arrested. This strategy contrasts with previous ICE statements, which indicated a focus on individuals posing national security or public safety risks.

Fred Tsao, senior policy counsel for ICIRR, voiced serious concerns about ICE's expanded operations, noting that the agency seems to be broadening its scope beyond its stated priorities.

He described a pattern where ICE agents, often operating in unmarked vehicles, are conducting raids at residences and making arrests based on a looser interpretation of enforcement targets. Tsao highlighted that these actions disproportionately impact communities of color and undermine trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.

ICE's operations in Cook County have been a point of contention for years, particularly due to the county's "sanctuary" policies, which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Despite Cook County's stance, ICE continues to conduct targeted enforcement operations, asserting its legal authority to do so. The agency maintains that its actions are lawful and essential for maintaining national security and public safety, while advocates continue to call for transparency and accountability regarding ICE's use of force and expanded arrest tactics.