Full Breakdown
Hanover Park Officer Radule Bojovic Returns to Duty After Immigration Detention
12/4/2025, 8:25:00 AM
Officer's Arrest and Return to Duty
Hanover Park Police Officer Radule Bojovic has resumed full-duty status following his detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 15, 2025. Bojovic, who was accused of overstaying a tourist visa, was arrested during "Operation Midway Blitz," a federal enforcement initiative targeting undocumented immigrants in the Chicago area. He was released on bond on October 31, 2025, after the federal government did not contest his bond status. The Village of Hanover Park confirmed that Bojovic was legally authorized to work as a police officer, having presented a valid Work Authorization Card and passed background checks conducted by the FBI and Illinois State Police.
Background of Operation Midway Blitz
Operation Midway Blitz, initiated by the Trump administration, aimed to apprehend undocumented immigrants, particularly those with criminal records. The operation has faced criticism for its aggressive tactics and the impact on local communities. Bojovic's arrest was part of this broader enforcement effort, which has resulted in thousands of arrests in the Chicago area since its launch in September 2025.
Official Statements & Responses
The Hanover Park Police Department stated that Bojovic's hiring in January 2025 complied with federal and state laws, asserting that he was authorized to work and carry a firearm. Deputy Chief Victor DiVito emphasized that the department acted in accordance with federal guidelines, noting, "Given that his bond was not contested and he remains authorized to work by the federal government, the Hanover Park Police Department determined that he may return to work." The village will also provide Bojovic with back pay for the duration of his leave.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the village's assurances, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) criticized the decision to employ Bojovic, arguing that it was illegal for him to possess a firearm due to his immigration status. This has raised questions about the hiring practices of local law enforcement agencies in relation to federal immigration laws.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Village of Hanover Park maintains that Bojovic's employment was lawful, DHS has not provided a definitive response regarding the legality of his work authorization. The discrepancy between local and federal interpretations of immigration law highlights ongoing tensions surrounding enforcement practices and local governance.
What's Next
As Bojovic returns to duty, the implications of his case may influence future discussions about immigration enforcement and local law enforcement policies. The ongoing legal battles surrounding Operation Midway Blitz and its impact on community relations will likely continue to be a focal point for advocacy groups and policymakers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Given that his bond was not contested and he remains authorized to work by the federal government, the Hanover Park Police Department determined that he may return to work,” — Victor DiVito, Deputy Chief, Hanover Park Police Department
- “The bottom line is that all information we received from the federal government indicated that Officer Bojovic is leaglly authorized to work in the United States as a police officer.” — Hanover Park Police Department Statement
- “This case started out being about the Trump administration's attempt to scare people who protested Operation Midway Blitz and reporters who documented it,” — Autumn Reidy-Hamer, Plaintiff
