Chicago Mayor Signs 'ICE On Notice' Order to Investigate Federal Agents

Johnson says order makes Chicago first city to pursue legal accountability for alleged ICE misconduct

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order on Saturday that launches investigations into ICE agents and lays the groundwork for potential criminal referrals for alleged law violations. The order creates a framework for public accountability if federal agents are found to violate local or state laws while operating in Chicago.

Why it matters

The order follows several high-profile confrontations between federal immigration agents and suspects in the Chicago area, including a fatal shooting. Mayor Johnson has vowed to 'lead a resistance' against the Trump Administration and federal authorities, and this order is the latest step in that effort.

The details

The order directs Chicago Police Department supervisors to preserve evidence of any incidents involving alleged illegal misconduct by federal immigration agents and make referrals of felony matters to the Cook County State's Attorney. Mayor Johnson accused federal agents of violating constitutionally protected rights, destabilizing communities, and provoking life-threatening confrontations while 'remaining insulated' from local or civilian oversight.

  • Mayor Johnson signed the executive order on Saturday, February 1, 2026.

The players

Brandon Johnson

The mayor of Chicago who signed the 'ICE On Notice' executive order.

Silverio Villegas González

A man who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in suburban Franklin Park in September 2025 after authorities said he resisted arrest, attempted to flee during a traffic stop, and dragged an ICE officer with his vehicle.

Chicago Police Department (CPD)

The local law enforcement agency that will be directed to preserve evidence and make referrals under Mayor Johnson's executive order.

Cook County State's Attorney

The local prosecutor's office that may receive referrals of felony matters from the CPD related to alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Nobody is above the law. There is no such thing as 'absolute immunity' in America.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago (The Gateway Pundit)

“The lawlessness of Trump's militarized immigration agents puts the lives and well-being of every Chicagoan in immediate danger. With today's order, we are putting ICE on notice in our city. Chicago will not sit idly by while Trump floods federal agents into our communities and terrorizes our residents.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago (The Gateway Pundit)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This order highlights the growing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities like Chicago seek to hold federal agents accountable for alleged misconduct and protect their residents. It remains to be seen how the Trump Administration will respond to this challenge to its immigration policies.