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Failed Immigration Cases Leave Chicago Prosecutor’s Office Reeling
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago, historically known for high-profile prosecutions, is currently facing a crisis following the Trump administration’s immigration sweep last fall.
- The office pursued numerous unsuccessful cases accusing protesters and immigrants of assaulting federal officers, leading to a significant departure of veteran prosecutors who felt pressured to pursue these charges.
- All seven section heads of the Chicago office’s criminal division have left within the past year, along with many successors and deputies, signaling deep internal turmoil.
- Over 100 former federal prosecutors signed a letter criticizing U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros, accusing his leadership of damaging the office’s reputation due to the handling of these cases.
- Boutros also dismantled the national security section, known for terrorism cases, and reassigned its responsibilities, while reallocating prosecutors to manage the influx of assault cases related to Operation Midway Blitz.
