CHICAGO, Ill. — A federal judge ruled Thursday that federal agents in Chicago must sharply limit their use of force against peaceful protesters and journalists, finding that current enforcement practices violate constitutional rights.
U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis issued a preliminary injunction refining an earlier temporary order that required agents to wear badges and banned the use of tear gas and other riot-control weapons against nonviolent demonstrators. The new order also mandates body cameras and requires agents to give two warnings before deploying force.
“I don’t find defendants’ version of events credible,” Ellis said, rejecting federal claims that agents acted appropriately during recent immigration crackdowns. She cited incidents where protesters were tear-gassed or had guns pointed at them, saying such conduct could deter citizens from exercising their First Amendment rights.
The injunction stems from a lawsuit filed by protesters and journalists who say federal agents used excessive force during demonstrations. Witnesses described being hit by pepper balls and fearing for their safety at future protests.
The Trump administration is expected to appeal the ruling, which marks a significant judicial check on federal law enforcement actions in Chicago.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
