Chicago Alderperson Seeks $100K After Handcuffing by ICE Agents

UPDATE: Chicago Alderperson Jessie Fuentes is taking decisive action after being forcibly handcuffed by federal agents, demanding $100,000 in damages. The incident, which occurred on October 3, 2025, has sparked outrage and raised questions about federal law enforcement tactics in the city.

In a bold move, Fuentes has initiated the first step toward a lawsuit against the federal government, aiming to hold the agents accountable for their actions. Video footage of the incident, which went viral, shows a federal agent aggressively grabbing Fuentes and placing her in handcuffs at Humboldt Park Health while she questioned their warrant for detaining a man with temporary protected status.

Fuentes’ attorney, Jan Susler of the People’s Law Office, filed an administrative claim on Tuesday morning as part of the process to seek compensation under the Federal Tort Claims Act. This claim highlights alleged personal injuries and emotional distress Fuentes suffered during the encounter.

According to the claim shared with Block Club Chicago, Fuentes experienced injuries to her wrists, shoulders, and arms, along with significant mental distress. “The alder is standing up to this terror… to lead with your sense of justice and insisting on accountability,” Susler stated.

The incident has drawn national attention amid increasing scrutiny of federal agents’ use of force against protesters. Fuentes emphasized, “Federal agents are not above the law, and we must hold them accountable.” This stance resonates deeply with many Chicagoans concerned about federal operations like Operation Midway Blitz, which have led to over 1,000 arrests and heightened tensions in the city.

Fuentes, who represents a predominantly Latino area, highlighted that federal agents have been deployed to create chaos and violate constitutional rights, stating, “The only people at risk in this moment are the residents of the city of Chicago.” The urgency of her claims is underscored by a recent surge in violent interactions involving federal agents, including fatal shootings and assaults on civilians.

The video of Fuentes’ confrontation reveals that she did not physically engage the agents, yet one threatened her with arrest if she did not leave the hospital. Fuentes remains resolute in her fight for justice, stating, “Us documenting the atrocities… is what we need to do in this moment.”

As the claim progresses, Susler plans to escalate to a full lawsuit if the government denies the initial claim within the next six months. This ongoing situation underscores not only the immediate risks faced by residents but also the broader implications of federal law enforcement actions in urban communities.

Authorities and community members are now watching closely as Fuentes seeks to challenge the federal government’s immunity in cases of alleged misconduct. With emotions running high, this case could set a significant precedent for accountability and civil rights in the United States.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.