Federal Court Cools Courts Chicago Agents’ Use of Force Limits

A federal appeals court has blocked a lower court ruling that sought to limit how immigration agents can use force during the Chicago-Areas Accorement, calling it “a judge’s order” and “overly descriptive.”

The Seventh Circuit panel cautioned the “readiness” of its stay, noting that a fast-track appeal could result in a “prepared and appropriate” order.

Earlier this month, US District Judge Sara Ellis issued a preliminary injunction after media organizations and protesters accused officers of excessive force during September across Chicago and nearby communities.

Justice Department lawyers said the order protected law enforcement’s ability to carry out its duties and could not “severe” the constitutional structure.

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The panel said the order was “substantially halting” because it specified cruise control arms and other devices in a manner “similar to Federal Regulation.”

The Ellis order prohibited the use of physical force and chemical agents such as temple balls and pepper balls unless necessary or to stop an immediate “threat”. ” The judge said the use of those tools violated the constitutional rights of journalists and protesters.

Witnesses told the court that they shed tears, fired pepper balls while he was praying, and guns were pointed at him.

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Tear gas fills the air after it was used by Federal Law Enforcement agents who confronted members of the public and activists who reportedly shot a woman in a wide area on October 4, 2025, in Wide View, Illinois. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Ellis found that the Trump Administration’s witnesses were “just not there,” including Gregory Bovino, the head of the Border Patrol who led the operation in the Chicago area before moving on to North Carolina.

Bovino defended the use of force by agents and oversaw 230 police officers from US customs and border protection in the region starting in September. Federal border agents are expected to be sent to New Orleans.

US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a Detainee sits in a car, Monday, November 17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. (AP Photos)

The immigration service has drawn many lawsuits, including requests for humane conditions at the Federal immigration agency – allegations that prompted a Federal judge and lawyers for the American immigration agency last week.

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DHS spokeswoman Tricia Mclaughlin called the stay “to protect the rule of law and the safety of all law enforcement officers.”

The accompanying device contributed to this report.