Chicago leaders question motives, impact of ICE operation involving Dr. Phil
CHICAGO - Uncertainty surrounds the scale and focus of a high-profile immigration enforcement operation in Chicago on Sunday, as local leaders question its purpose and transparency.
The operation, which involved ICE agents and federal officials, resulted in nationwide arrests but left unanswered questions about its local impact.
What we know:
President Donald Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, participated in the Chicago-area enforcement, claiming on Fox News that it targeted individuals accused of serious crimes.
"We arrested people with assault allegations, extreme sexual assault," Homan said. "These are all bad people, public safety threats—they shouldn’t be walking the streets of Chicago."
ICE reported 956 arrests nationwide and 554 detainers issued to local officials but has not provided specifics about how many arrests were made in Chicago or the nature of those detained.
City officials, including Chicago Police, were informed of the operation but did not participate, adhering to sanctuary laws.
Suspects detained in the raids were processed at an ICE facility in Bridgeview and sent to detention centers across the country.
What they're saying:
Critics, including Alderman Brian Hopkins, labeled the operation a "publicity stunt."
Hopkins, who has supported changes to Chicago’s sanctuary city policies, said, "They were trying to do the right thing, but they did it the wrong way for the wrong reasons."
He also criticized the involvement of Trump-supporting media personality Dr. Phil, who filmed parts of the operation.
North Shore Congressman Brad Schneider expressed concern about the operation’s focus.
"What’s disturbing about this weekend’s ICE raids is it appears that rather than focusing on dangerous criminals – irrespective of their immigration status – the Administration is making a show of force to sow fear by seemingly going after people who are law-abiding, who have been here for decades, who are valued members of our community," Schneider said.
Homan has turned down repeated requests from FOX 32 for an interview, and an ICE spokesperson did not respond to inquiries asking how many arrests were made in the Chicago region.
What's next:
Activists and community groups are urging residents to know their rights in the face of potential future enforcement actions.