Security fence installed around federal courthouse in Rockford

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — A new, temporary fence has been erected around the federal courthouse building in Rockford this weekend, amid reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are deploying soon to the Chicago area.

The City of Rockford confirmed the installation of the security fence late Friday, at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, at 327 S Church Street.

“We understand the federal government is installing a temporary security fence around the federal courthouse building in Rockford. We recognize that this development may raise concerns or uncertainty within our community. Please know that we are actively seeking more information. As soon as we learn more, we will share updates to keep the community informed and reassured. Your safety remains our top priority,” the city said in a statement.

While Chicago prepares for a surge of immigration operations, the city of Rockford issued a statement on Wednesday, saying that ICE operations could extend to the Forest City.

The City posted a notice to its Facebook page in both English, Spanish, and Arabic, saying, “We are aware that Homeland Security recently confirmed plans to expand ICE operations in Chicago. While there is no confirmation that these operations will extend to Rockford, we recognize it is a possibility. And, we also recognize the fear and uncertainty this news may cause.”

“It’s also important to be clear – the Rockford Police Department follows the Illinois Trust Act. We do not participate in ICE raids, nor will we,” the statement continued. “To our immigrant neighbors: please know this — you are valued, you are cared for and you are an important part of who we are.”

The TRUST Act, signed by former Gov. Bruce Rauner (R) in 2017, prevents state law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

According to ICE, undocumented immigrants arrested as part of the nationwide effort had criminal histories, including sexual assault, robbery, drug and weapons charges, and domestic violence, the agency said.

The Department of Homeland Security conducted operations in Rockford in mid-June, but it has not been confirmed whether the agents were from ICE.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker held a news conference later Monday, saying the head of the Illinois State Police had received a call from Customs and Border Protection’s chief patrol agent Gregory Bovino on Saturday.

The governor said the White House began positioning armed federal agents and military vehicles at the Great Lakes Naval Base on Monday.

Community activist Antonio Ramirez Jr. said, although there has been no indication that ICE will be conducting sweeps in Rockford, he understands if immigrants choose not to attend events like Tamale Fest, Fiestas Patrias, and the city’s Mexican Independence Day parade and festival.

While Chicago postponed its Mexican Independence Day parade this year in preparation for a possible surge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) efforts in the city, Rockford leaders say they are proceeding with local celebrations.