Illinois Accountability Commission Expands Tools to Collect Information from the Public

Illinois Accountability Commission Expands Tools to Collect Information from the Public

Individuals who witnessed or experienced potential misconduct by federal agents during Operation Midway Blitz can visit ilac.illinois.gov/interest-form

CHICAGO - To support its ongoing investigations, today the Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC) announced a new submission process where individuals who witnessed or experienced potential misconduct by federal agents during Operation Midway Blitz can submit video or narrative information to the Commission. This pilot process will expand the IAC's outreach efforts by engaging people who cannot attend a hearing but would like to create a public record that can be used to demand answers and pursue justice and accountability.

"As the Trump Administration continues its attacks on immigrant communities and peaceful protesters, Illinois refuses to let these egregious abuses of power by ICE and CBP go unchecked. With the launch of IAC's submission portal, I urge Illinoisans affected by potential misconduct to help expose the federal government's lies about Operation Midway Blitz," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Here in Illinois, we follow the law. We'll collect photos, videos, and other information from our communities as we seek justice and call for Donald Trump, Kristi Noem, and Gregory Bovino to be held accountable."

During Operation Midway Blitz, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CPB) agents wreaked havoc in our neighborhoods, arrested hundreds without warrants, provoked chaos upon protesters and bystanders, and indiscriminately used chemical irritants as a method of crowd control-all without any real federal oversight or accountability.

"Our deliberate approach seeks to mitigate the negative impact on those who seek to share information and to build a record that withstands any attempt to erase or minimize what has occurred here," said Rubén Castillo, Chair of the Illinois Accountability Commission. "This pilot process advances our larger strategic goal, which is establishing an undeniable, permanent record of accountability that transcends changing administrations and creating consequences for those who violate law. We appreciate the public's patience during these difficult times."

To submit information to the IAC, visit ilac.illinois.gov/interest-form and complete the interest form. An individual can expect to receive follow-up outreach within 5-7 business days. All information shared with the IAC through this process may be subject to relevant records disclosure requirements such as the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. To learn more, access the State of Illinois Privacy Notice at illinois.gov/about/privacy.

Visit the Commission Updates page on the IAC website to learn more information about upcoming hearings and how to provide public comment.

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About the Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC)

The Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC) is an independent body established by Executive Order to review federal law enforcement operations in Illinois, document their impact on residents and communities, and make recommendations for accountability and reform. With support from the Illinois Department of Human Rights, the Commission will conduct public hearings and issue an interim report to the Governor and the People of Illinois by January 31, 2026, with a final report by April 30, 2026.