Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson defended his decision to issue an executive order requiring police officers to document alleged abuses by federal immigration agents for potential prosecution, despite a challenge from Cook County State's Attorney Eileen O'Neill Burke. The order was seen as a response to the killing of two people and harm to others by ICE agents in Minneapolis and Chicago.
According to Johnson, his plan aims to hold the federal government accountable for its actions, which he believes have led to rogue behavior among immigration agents. He expressed concerns that the Trump administration's deportation campaign has undermined trust between law enforcement agencies.
Johnson also cited Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner's efforts as inspiration, with the mayor saying he is part of a group of prosecutors working together to prosecute federal officers who break state laws. However, not everyone supports this approach, and some Chicago police advocates have criticized Johnson for potentially putting his officers in an uncomfortable position by pitting them against federal agents.
Cook County State's Attorney O'Neill Burke questioned the legality of the executive order, which could affect how felony charges are evaluated. She has emphasized that her office does not conduct independent investigations into criminal conduct but may consider prosecution if there is evidence.
Critics argue that Johnson's plan could lead to police officers being asked to confront federal agents, potentially escalating tensions and creating more problems for law enforcement in the city. Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara described the executive order as "piece of toilet paper," stating that union representatives will explore potential legal jeopardy facing rank-and-file officers.
A coalition of City Council members and state officials is calling on O'Neill Burke to investigate a recent killing by an ICE agent in Chicago, arguing that her office should prioritize prosecutions if there is evidence. The group emphasizes the role of state prosecutors as part of the checks and balances system in the country's constitutional framework.
According to Johnson, his plan aims to hold the federal government accountable for its actions, which he believes have led to rogue behavior among immigration agents. He expressed concerns that the Trump administration's deportation campaign has undermined trust between law enforcement agencies.
Johnson also cited Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner's efforts as inspiration, with the mayor saying he is part of a group of prosecutors working together to prosecute federal officers who break state laws. However, not everyone supports this approach, and some Chicago police advocates have criticized Johnson for potentially putting his officers in an uncomfortable position by pitting them against federal agents.
Cook County State's Attorney O'Neill Burke questioned the legality of the executive order, which could affect how felony charges are evaluated. She has emphasized that her office does not conduct independent investigations into criminal conduct but may consider prosecution if there is evidence.
Critics argue that Johnson's plan could lead to police officers being asked to confront federal agents, potentially escalating tensions and creating more problems for law enforcement in the city. Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara described the executive order as "piece of toilet paper," stating that union representatives will explore potential legal jeopardy facing rank-and-file officers.
A coalition of City Council members and state officials is calling on O'Neill Burke to investigate a recent killing by an ICE agent in Chicago, arguing that her office should prioritize prosecutions if there is evidence. The group emphasizes the role of state prosecutors as part of the checks and balances system in the country's constitutional framework.