An attorney representing Illinois claimants against ICE over a major immigration operation in Chicago believes accountability is imminent. Following the filing of 15 Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) cases by citizens and a green card holder due to Operation Midway Blitz, Antonio Romanucci of Romanucci & Blandin shared his views with Newsweek on Friday. He feels there’s ample video and photographic proof showing excessive force by federal agents.
The FTCA offers a path for court cases, depending on agency responses, despite federal laws largely shielding agents from prosecution. “In the near future, I expect enhanced accountability for the involved administration and individuals,” Romanucci stated. He anticipates they will have to justify their actions not only in litigation but also to the American public, regarding the alleged state-sponsored terrorism unleashed on American cities.
What Happened During Operation Midway Blitz?
The operation in Illinois was closely monitored during the Trump administration’s second term. Operation Midway Blitz involved hundreds of federal agents conducting a large-scale enforcement sweep in Chicago and nearby areas. This led to weeks of protests, conflicts with local law enforcement, and numerous legal challenges. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), over 4,500 immigrants were detained.
Critics accused agents of using excessive force, even against U.S. citizens protesting and documenting the operations. Federal officials, like former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, consistently defended the agents, denying any misconduct.
Romanucci stated, “Presenting the facts and showing the force used against ordinary, nonviolent citizens will highlight the excessive nature through video evidence and client testimony.” He asserted that the citizens did not retaliate against federal agents.
Claimants: Citizens and Journalists
The 15 filings include journalists and U.S. citizens. Among them are Oak Park official Juan Munoz and journalist Leigh Kunkel, both claiming unlawful detention and rights violations. Attorney Jennifer Moriarty is also a claimant.
“As a citizen and elected official, my rights were violated. This incident changed my understanding of public office responsibilities,” Munoz expressed. “Silence allows power abuses to persist.”
Claimant Kyle Frankovich urged accountability across DHS leadership and those involved in disrupting Chicago: “Families suffered. People were shot, many left disabled, and some died. We demand accountability at every level.”
The Role of Video Evidence
Romanucci emphasized the significance of video evidence in upcoming litigation. “The video doesn’t lie,” he insisted, suggesting the recordings capture constitutional rights violations. His team is also representing Renee Nicole Good’s family, who was killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
Romanucci aims to achieve accountability for law violations, noting, “We have ample evidence, including witness statements, to challenge the claims by the administration.” He dismissed governmental claims about responding to disruptive protests as attempts to mislead the public.
Response from DHS
During operations like Midway Blitz in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Minnesota, DHS maintained that personnel operated lawfully. They highlighted increased assaults and hostile interventions while executing immigration tasks.
A DHS statement to Newsweek affirmed the arrest of “worst alleged illegal immigrants,” stating, “Agitators hindering law enforcement will face prosecution.” The department has since reduced large-scale operations, moving to smaller, low-profile interventions after incidents in Minneapolis.
Next Steps for Claims
Under the FTCA, claimants must submit administrative claims. After a review, these claims can be accepted or denied or remain unresolved. If DHS doesn’t resolve them in six months, further action is possible in federal court.
Romanucci noted, “If necessary, we will pursue every option, including federal agents and administrations for unconstitutional actions.” He emphasizes that addressing these wrongdoings and policies is crucial.
Contact Newsweek’s Gabe Whisnant and Sam Wilson for more information on this story.
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