Radule Bojovic, a police officer from Hanover Park, has been released on bail while awaiting the outcome of his immigration case. This decision follows his arrest last month by agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which revealed he had been living in the United States illegally for over a decade.
Bojovic, originally from Montenegro, was apprehended on October 15, 2023, under allegations that he overstayed his tourist visa, which expired on March 31, 2015. Despite these claims, officials from Hanover Park assert that he held valid federal work permits at the time of his employment. According to his attorney, efforts are ongoing to resolve his legal situation.
On October 31, 2023, a spokesperson for ICE confirmed that Bojovic was released from custody after an immigration judge granted him bail set at $2,500. His immigration proceedings are still active, adding a layer of complexity to his case.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expressed criticism toward Hanover Park for employing Bojovic, citing concerns over his eligibility to possess a firearm. Local officials, however, maintain that Bojovic’s hiring in January was in full compliance with federal and state laws. The municipality had previously verified that he possessed a legal federal work authorization card issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
In a statement regarding Bojovic’s arrest, the Hanover Park police noted that he successfully passed background checks conducted by both the FBI and the Illinois State Police. Additionally, documentation from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) dated January 5, 2024, confirmed that his immigration status permitted him to carry a weapon while on duty.
The police department emphasized that all information received from federal authorities indicated that Bojovic was legally authorized to work as a police officer in the U.S. They stated, “Clearly, without that authorization, the municipality would not have employed him. Also, the municipality never received notice from any federal or state agency that his work permit status had been revoked.”
Currently, Bojovic is on administrative leave while the immigration process unfolds. Police officials have indicated that if he is allowed to remain in the U.S. and retains his work eligibility, he will be reinstated to his position.
The case has drawn attention not only due to its legal implications but also because it raises questions about employment practices regarding immigration status in law enforcement. As the situation develops, both local and federal authorities will be closely monitoring the outcome.
