CBP Commander Faces Allegations of Tear Gas Misuse, Defying Judicial Mandate

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In a developing story out of Chicago, U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino faces serious allegations of defying a federal judge’s temporary restraining order. The accusations stem from an incident on Thursday, where Bovino was reportedly captured on video hurling tear gas canisters during an immigration enforcement action.

Legal documents have surfaced, featuring an image of Bovino allegedly tossing a tear gas canister towards a group of protesters. This event took place in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, with evidence reportedly filmed by a protester at the scene. Lawyers argue that the footage shows Bovino launching one or two tear gas canisters over the heads of federal agents stationed ahead of him, aiming at the gathered demonstrators.

This altercation on Thursday marks the second consecutive day of tension between protesters and federal officers in the Little Village area. The neighborhood has become a focal point of unrest, as federal operations and local dissent collide.

In light of these serious claims, the Department of Homeland Security has not yet issued a statement or responded to requests for comment regarding the situation involving Commander Bovino.

A photo taken from video shot by a protester seems to show Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino tossing a canister of a chemical agent during an encounter with protesters on Thursday in Chicago. (Federal Court filing)

The filing said that the alleged actions violate multiple sections of an order that was issued by Judge Sara Ellis earlier this month. This week, two officials from Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement testified in federal court, asked by Ellis to explain the use of force by federal agents and officers. The plaintiffs alleged agents had violated the terms of the restraining order.

Ellis also sided with the plaintiffs in seeking Bovino and a top ICE agent to be deposed at a later date. Bovino, along with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, is among the defendants named in a federal lawsuit brought by several Chicago-area journalism organizations, protesters and clergy members.

Bovino has overseen Operation Midway Blitz, which began Sept. 7 and has included more than 1,500 arrests, including U.S. citizens.

Ellis set Nov. 5 as the date for a hearing in which an injunction will be sought to make the temporary restraining order against federal officers and officials permanent.