ICE Returns to Chicago as Immigration Enforcement Ramps Up

Federal immigration enforcement is escalating in Chicago as Customs and Border Patrol agents return to the city in force, setting up a confrontation between federal authorities and local officials determined to protect immigrant communities.

CBP Chief Greg Bovino arrived in Chicago this week to personally oversee expanded operations, according to sources familiar with the matter. The move signals a more aggressive posture from the Trump administration, which has made immigration enforcement a top priority since taking office.

Governor JB Pritzker, speaking at an unrelated event in Springfield, acknowledged the stepped-up federal presence but expressed confidence in the state’s preparations.

“We believe Illinois is better prepared than ever to respond to federal overreach,” Pritzker said. “Our laws are clear: We will not use state and local resources to assist in immigration enforcement, and we will hold federal agents accountable when they violate residents’ constitutional rights.”

New Law Takes Effect

The timing coincides with the implementation of a new Illinois law barring federal immigration officials from making civil arrests in or around courthouses, hospitals, college campuses, and daycares. The legislation, signed by Pritzker earlier this year, also provides legal avenues for individuals who believe their constitutional rights were violated during an immigration arrest to sue federal agents.

The law represents one of the strongest sanctuary protections in the country and has drawn praise from immigrant advocates while infuriating federal officials.

“Illinois is putting up barriers to federal law enforcement that endanger public safety,” said a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson in a statement. “Sanctuary policies protect criminals and put communities at risk.”

Supporters counter that the law simply ensures immigrants can access essential services—medical care, education, and the courts—without fear of arrest.

“You can’t have a functioning society if people are afraid to go to the hospital or testify in court,” said State Senator Cristina Castro, the bill’s chief sponsor. “These protections make everyone safer, not just immigrants.”

Community Preparations

In neighborhoods with large immigrant populations, community organizations have been ramping up “know your rights” training sessions and distributing information about what to do if stopped by immigration agents.

The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights has established a 24-hour hotline for residents to report ICE activity and has trained volunteer rapid-response teams to document arrests and provide support to affected families.

“People are scared, but they’re also organized,” said Lawrence Benito, the coalition’s executive director. “We’ve been preparing for this moment for years.”

In Pilsen and Little Village, two of the city’s most heavily Mexican-American neighborhoods, community groups have posted flyers in Spanish explaining residents’ rights. Local businesses have placed signs indicating they will not cooperate with immigration enforcement.

City Response

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling reiterated the department’s policy of not participating in immigration enforcement operations.

“Our officers do not ask about immigration status, and we do not honor ICE detainers absent a judicial warrant,” Snelling said. “That policy has not changed.”

However, the superintendent acknowledged limitations. “We cannot prevent federal agents from operating in the city,” Snelling said. “What we can do is ensure CPD resources are not used to assist them.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson, whose administration has clashed repeatedly with the Trump administration on immigration issues, issued a statement condemning the escalation.

“Chicago has always been a city of immigrants, and we will not be intimidated by federal bullying tactics,” Johnson said. “Our immigrant neighbors are welcome here, and they should know their city stands with them.”

What to Expect

Immigration attorneys say residents should be prepared for an increase in enforcement actions at workplaces, homes, and public spaces. While the new state law provides some protections, it does not prevent federal agents from operating entirely.

“The best protection is knowing your rights,” said attorney Jessica Arong O’Brien, who specializes in immigration law. “You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to refuse consent to a search. You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering questions.”

Residents who witness immigration enforcement activity are encouraged to document what they see from a safe distance and report the incident to local advocacy organizations. Video footage has proven valuable in legal challenges to improper arrests.

The coming weeks will test the durability of Chicago’s sanctuary protections and the willingness of local officials to stand firm against federal pressure. For the city’s immigrant communities, the stakes could not be higher.