ICE in Chicago: Federal judge to issue decision on federal immigration agents' use of force in ahead of TRO expiring
A judge said she will issue a decision Thursday morning on federal agents' use of force and whether to extend a restraining order.
Wednesday's hearing lasted all day and included a recorded deposition from Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, who is leading Operation Midway Blitz.
In his video deposition that played out in court, Bovino defended his actions and those of federal agents.
He said all uses of force and arrests that he's seen have been "more than exemplary."
RELATED | Chicago federal intervention: Tracking surge in immigration enforcement operations | Live updates
Lawyers have argued, however, agents have violated demonstrators' constitutional rights by use of force.
Testimony from elected officials, media representatives and others detailed how they had weapons pointed at them, simply for recording what they saw.
Others recounted their experiences being tear gassed or shot with pepper bullets.
SEE ALSO | Judge issues temporary restraining order against DHS for Broadview ICE facility conditions
But the government says, agents have the right to protect themselves and protestors must feel safe, since demonstrations continue across the Chicago area.
'They were becoming even more aggressive, violent in trying to surround agents over and above the van they had already surrounded," Bovino said. "And one more thing is I had noticed they had utilized a white van, some of the vehicles, to block a key intersection, a route of egress."
Now, the judge has already ordered agents to wear body cameras and give at least two verbal warnings before using tear gas during protests.
It's only supposed to be used in limited circumstances, under the judge's current order, which is set to expire Thursday, if it is not extended.
Judge Sara Ellis is set to make a decision - whether to extend the restraining order - regarding federal agents' use of force. The hearing is set to begin at 10 a.m.
