Appeals court blocks order limiting immigration agents' use of force in Chicago

A federal appeals court temporarily halted an order restricting immigration agents' use of force in the Chicago area, calling the ruling "too prescriptive."

Federal immigration enforcement agents detain a protester in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago on Oct. 23, 2025. (AP)

The panel said the order was "too prescriptive" because it specified riot control weapons and other devices in a way that "resembles a federal regulation."

Ellis’ order barred agents from using physical force and chemical agents such as tear gas and pepper balls unless necessary or to prevent "an immediate threat." The judge said the use of those tools violated the constitutional rights of journalists and protesters.

Witnesses told the court they were tear-gassed, shot with pepper balls while praying, and had guns pointed at them.

FEDERAL JUDGE SAYS ICE DETAINEES 'SHOULDN'T BE SLEEPING NEXT TO OVERFLOWING TOILETS' AT CHICAGO-AREA FACILITY

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at Large Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a detainee sits by a car, Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. (AP Photos)

The immigration operation has drawn multiple lawsuits, including claims of inhumane conditions at a federal immigration facility — allegations that prompted a federal judge and attorneys to visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement center outside Chicago last week.

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DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin called the stay "a win for the rule of law and for the safety of every law enforcement officer."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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