Gregory Bovino, former chief of the Border Patrol, retired while under investigation for his conduct during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis and Chicago. Records released last week by the federal government highlight the details of the situation.
In early March, an internal government watchdog reached out to Bovino regarding an ‘official inquiry into allegations of misconduct,’ as revealed through emails released by Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). The name of the official involved was redacted, but Bovino was asked to acknowledge receipt and respond to questions. This correspondence occurred on March 2, and shortly after, on March 18, Bovino informed an official about his retirement plans. He formally retired later that month.
Bovino led controversial operations, including the deadly Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago last fall and Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis earlier in the year. In a message on X, Bovino claimed he was pressured to retire. The release of the emails remains unclear, though CBP posted them on their Freedom of Information Act portal as ‘frequently requested records.’
Bovino’s credibility had been questioned, as a federal judge, Sara Ellis, found his testimony ‘not credible’ during a Chicago court case. The case dealt with whether agents violated the civil rights of protesters and media. Over three days of depositions, Ellis noted Bovino gave evasive and dishonest answers. A letter from a federal official asked Bovino about his opinion on the fate of a Border Patrol agent deemed ‘not credible’ by a U.S. District Judge.
Bovino’s involvement in the Chicago operation came under scrutiny after the lawsuit filed by the Chicago Headline Club and other media groups. Judge Ellis issued a preliminary injunction to limit federal agents’ use of munitions against media and protesters. It also required agents to wear body cameras and identification.
Bovino dismissed these findings. He allegedly made insensitive comments during a January meeting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis. He questioned whether Orthodox criminals take Saturdays off, referencing a prosecutor’s absence due to religious observance.
According to an investigative document, Bovino denied these accusations, claiming the investigations arose after he left Minnesota. He contested the findings of lying to Ellis and noted a review board ruled in his favor initially. Bovino accused CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott of sending the case for further examination. Bovino learned about allegations of antisemitic comments through the New York Times and termed it a political attack. Homeland Security has not commented.
Post-government, Bovino criticized the Trump administration’s immigration policies, claiming Trump officials wished him harm. In an interview with podcaster Tucker Carlson, he accused the administration of failing its immigration promises and criticized border czar Tom Homan and Scott. His recent posts hinted at the contentious end to his government career, describing procedural tactics used against agents.