Chicago, Illinois — A leaked Justice Department memo is drawing sharp criticism from civil liberties advocates after directing federal prosecutors to consider “domestic terrorism” charges against individuals who record immigration enforcement operations. The memo, dated December 4 and first reported by independent journalist Ken Klippenstein, frames the recording or identification of federal agents as a form of “doxing” that could be treated as a national security threat.
The directive surfaced amid renewed immigration enforcement actions in the Chicago area led by U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, whose return with hundreds of agents — and a film crew — reignited accusations that immigration raids are being used as political theater. Chicago officials accused federal authorities of conducting warrantless arrests while simultaneously filming operations for public messaging purposes.
Critics argue the Justice Department’s position conflicts with long-established First Amendment protections that allow the public to record law enforcement officials performing their duties in public spaces. The memo broadly defines “doxing” as activity intended to intimidate officers or influence policy, a definition that legal experts warn could criminalize routine civic oversight and journalism.
Immigration policy analysts say the language could chill free speech nationwide by allowing prosecutors to equate filming with terrorism, depending largely on political alignment. The memo also echoes past statements by Department of Homeland Security officials who have characterized filming agents as a form of violence.
Civil liberties groups warn the policy risks undermining constitutional protections while selectively targeting critics of the administration’s immigration agenda, potentially exposing ordinary citizens, journalists, and activists to severe criminal liability.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
