DHS Denies Reports Bovino, Other Border Patrol Agents Leaving Chicago

CHICAGO — An official from the Department of Homeland Security is denying reports U.S. Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino and some of his agents are leaving Chicago soon, even as early as this week. Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of DHS, said "We aren't leaving Chicago" in a social media post Tuesday.

McLaughlin referenced a report by CBS News, that three U.S. officials, who requested anonymity, told the media outlet the Trump administration has made plans for the departures. Chicago Tribune is also reporting the plan. Since his arrival in mid-September, Bovino has been leading as many as 200 agents in the "Operation Midway Blitz" immigration enforcement effort throughout Chicago and the suburbs.

Last week, U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis issued a preliminary injunction against Bovino and his agents over their use of excessive force. The ruling followed a number of controversial arrests in which agents, including Bovino, had used tear gas and riot control weapons against people the judge deemed dint not pose an immediate threat.

RELATED: Judge Grants Preliminary Injunction Against Bovino, Federal Agents Over Use Of Force: "Shocks The Conscience"

Meanwhile, President Trump, on his Truth social media platform, renewed his call to deploy the National Guard in Chicago, saying murder and crime are "prevalent" throughout the city. He also referred to a more than 28 percent business vacancy in Chicago's "Miracle Mile Shopping Center."