ICE Reinstates Officer After Revocation, Announces Back Pay Following Immigration Decision

An Illinois police officer who was unlawfully fired by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for allegedly being in the country illegally has been reinstated with back pay.

The Hanover Park Police Department announced Tuesday that Radule Bojovic, a 25-year-old Montenegrin citizen, returned to duty Monday and will continue serving while he awaits resolution of his immigration case.

According to department sources, “Given that his bond was not contested and he remains authorized to work by the federal government, we determined Officer Bojovic may return to active service.” The statement noted ICE’s lack of contesting his release on a $2,500 bond after arresting him for allegedly overstaying a tourist visa.

Bojovic was arrested on October 15th and released without further incident on October 31st. He had been approved by the pension board earlier this month to earn an annual salary of approximately $78,955, with total taxpayer costs estimated at over $200,000.

Hanover Park officials maintain Bojovic was hired in January “in full compliance” with relevant laws before being notified they would face termination if ICE deemed him removable. The department stated authorities confirmed through background checks that Bojovic possessed legal work authorization and carried firearms properly during his tenure until the unlawful arrest by federal immigration agents.

The case highlights ongoing debates about balancing federal authority with state interests in employment verification matters.