Federal Agents Handcuff Chicago Alderperson At Hospital ER

Ald. Jessie Fuentes faced handcuffing by federal agents at Humboldt Park Hospital while attempting to assist a man they had detained. Fuentes, who represents a predominantly Puerto Rican neighborhood, criticized the agents for their violation of constitutional rights, raising concerns about the treatment of residents, both documented and undocumented. The agents claimed they were responding to an individual who had been injured during their pursuit. Fuentes questioned the agents about their warrant and was warned of arrest for "impeding," leading to her handcuffing.

Mayor Brandon Johnson defended Fuentes, emphasizing the right of elected officials to document federal enforcement actions. Activists, including Adrian Rodriguez, assisted individuals in the emergency room to avoid potential ICE encounters. The incident reflects escalating tensions regarding ICE activities in Chicago, with reports of increased detentions throughout the city. Local leaders urged residents to pressure their aldermen to resist federal enforcement actions.