July 25, 2025
Dear editor;
From the Chambers of Chief Judge Robert K. Villa:
Dear Kane County citizens, legal professionals, and law enforcement agencies,
I am writing to address recent concerns and questions stemming from ICE activities at the Kane County Judicial Center.
Federal law enforcement agencies including, but not limited to, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), have for many years served federal warrants in and around Kane County courthouses.
The 16th Judicial Circuit’s General Order 25-06, entered May 2, 2025, recognizes the interaction of Federal and Illinois laws concerning apprehension and clarifies the expectations and obligations of Local, State, and Federal law enforcement officials conducting apprehension activity in Kane County courthouses.
The Chief Judge’s Office is aware of the recent Federal apprehension activity in Kane County and appreciates the consideration Federal Law Enforcement officials have shown to the expectations and operational parameters provided in General Order 25-06.
The Chief Judge’s Office, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office have and shall continue our collaborative efforts to protect the rights of all citizens who appear at Kane County courthouses and monitor all such future activity.
Robert K Villa, Chief Judge, 16th Judicial Circuit