Gregory Bovino, the former Border Patrol section chief for the El Centro Sector in California, arrived in Chicago this week. This visit occurred against a backdrop of Illinois leaders expressing disapproval of President Donald Trump's purported plans. Bovino was recently the face of ICE raids in California, actively participating in operations in locations like MacArthur Park and Home Depot stores.
Bovino, a North Carolina native, has been described as a prominent figure of the Trump era. He joined the Border Patrol in 1996 and plans to retire to his home state to work on an apple farm. He has been a significant figure in federal immigration enforcement for some time.
In Chicago, DHS launched Operation Midway Blitz, modeled after successful immigration enforcement efforts in Los Angeles, with Bovino reportedly playing a key role. Homeland Security officials stated the operation was launched in honor of Katie Abraham, who was killed in a DUI car crash caused by an illegal immigrant. The operation aims to target "the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens" in Chicago.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized Bovino's presence in Chicago, stating it indicated "terrible plans for the communities of Illinois." As part of Midway Blitz, DHS released a list of targets, including individuals with criminal convictions. A naval station in nearby Waukegan is being used as a staging area for the operation.
5 Comments
Muchacha
If it's a problem, resolve the issues that lead to people crossing borders, and criminals will fall by the wayside.
Bella Ciao
Glad to see a focus on removing the 'worst of the worst.' The public deserves protection.
Noir Black
So, the Trump administration's go-to guy for ICE raids is now in Chicago? This smells like a political stunt to me.
dedus mopedus
This is a distraction from real issues, like poverty and lack of opportunity.
Habibi
This seems like a fair approach and has a focus on public safety. Good job DHS.