The story begins with a startling revelation: a police officer, sworn to uphold the law, was himself living outside of it. Radule Bojovic, originally from Montenegro, was arrested by ICE agents in October, revealing a decade spent in the United States beyond the terms of his visa.
Bojovic initially entered the country as a tourist in 2015, granted a B2 visa with a clear departure date. He remained, however, effectively residing in the US illegally for ten years – a period that would ultimately lead to his detainment and scrutiny of his employment.
Despite his arrest, the narrative took an unexpected turn. Just weeks after being held on a $2,500 immigration bond, an immigration judge authorized Bojovic to continue working within the United States. This single decision dramatically altered his fate.
In a move that ignited controversy, the Hanover Park Police Department announced Bojovic’s re-hiring. The department stated their decision was based on federal authorization to work, a critical factor in their assessment of his eligibility.
Officials emphasized that without explicit permission from the federal government, Bojovic would not have been considered for employment. They also confirmed they had received no indication that his work authorization had ever been revoked, solidifying their position.
The case raises profound questions about the intersection of immigration law and law enforcement. A Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary previously highlighted the inherent contradiction of an officer actively breaking the law, specifically regarding firearm possession restrictions for non-citizens.
Bojovic is now back on duty, undergoing a 15-week intensive field training and evaluation period. He is once again an armed officer, tasked with serving and protecting the Hanover Park community – a situation that continues to draw intense public attention and debate.
The department maintains that all actions were taken in accordance with federal guidelines, emphasizing their reliance on official work authorization. This case serves as a stark example of the complexities surrounding immigration status and its impact on public service roles.
