Overview

• Videos show Debbie Brockman being forced to the ground, handcuffed, and placed into an unmarked silver van with New Jersey plates near Foster and Lincoln in Lincoln Square.
• As the van left, it clipped another vehicle’s rear end, according to bystander footage and multiple local reports.
• DHS officials say Brockman was arrested for assault on a federal officer after allegedly throwing objects at a Border Patrol vehicle, a claim that contrasts with witnesses who heard agents cite obstruction and saw her identify herself as WGN staff.
• WGN said it was gathering facts and later reported Brockman was released from federal custody by about 3 p.m. Friday.
• The incident followed a federal judge’s temporary restraining order limiting actions against journalists, and legal observers say the arrest could prompt review of agents’ compliance as broader enforcement operations continued across Chicago.