[Fearing Federal Agents, Chicago Elementary School Denies Entry, Later Learns They Were US Secret Service Agents
Around 11:15 a.m. on Friday morning, two agents attempted to enter Hamline Elementary School in Chicago. School officials initially denied them entry, believing them to be from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, it was later revealed that the agents were actually from the US Secret Service.
The agents, who presented identification from the Department of Homeland Security, were investigating a potential threat to a protectee. They visited the school as part of their investigation and left without incident.
School officials were on edge due to recent rumors and reports that ICE was in the community, following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a planned nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration. The district has a policy of not allowing ICE agents into schools without a criminal judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.
The US Secret Service has been investigating a threat made against a government official they protect, and the agents who visited the school were part of that investigation. The agency clarified that they do not investigate nor enforce immigration laws.
The incident highlights the tensions and fears surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly in schools. The Chicago Public Schools district has committed to protecting students and families in accordance with the Illinois Trust Act and Chicago’s Welcoming City Ordinance, which prohibits the use of school resources to enforce immigration laws.
ICE has denied the initial claim that the agents were from their agency, stating that they were not involved in the incident. The agency’s recent policy change allowing them to make arrests in sensitive locations, such as schools and churches, has sparked concerns from immigrant advocates and community leaders.
The district will continue to prioritize student safety and well-being, while also respecting the rights and dignity of all students and families.
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