Chicago – September 21, 2025
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has denied allegations of using excessive force amid its expanded immigration arrests across Chicago and nearby suburbs. The agency’s operation, known as “Midway Blitz,” has resulted in nearly 550 arrests, with 50-60% involving targeted suspects with criminal records or final removal orders.
Marcos Charles, acting head of ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, described the operation as “successful,” asserting that agents used an appropriate level of force in response to suspects increasingly refusing to comply with orders.
Charles blamed activist rhetoric for encouraging resistance, while local officials like Alderman Andre Vasquez criticized ICE for escalating tensions and provoked confrontations.
The situation intensified following a September 12 shooting where an ICE officer fatally shot Silverio Villegas González, a Mexican immigrant who allegedly tried to flee by driving at officers.
The incident is under investigation, with state and Mexican officials calling for a thorough review. Critics also highlight concerns about ICE agents wearing masks, not identifying themselves, and lacking body cameras, which contrasts with local police policies.
Charles affirmed that the crackdown will continue without a set end date as ICE seeks to curb illegal residency among immigrants with criminal backgrounds. The operation includes over 200 officers from across the U.S., underscoring a firm federal stance on immigration enforcement in Chicago.
