Federal Agents Conduct Investigation at Puerto Rican Museum in Chicago

Federal agents made an unexpected visit to the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture (NMPRAC) in Chicago, which the museum has noted as a “targeted” effort to intimidate staff and visitors before a series of Latine cultural events. Security footage showed officers entering the museum without presenting a warrant or identification. Museum CEO Billy Ocasio reported that the group arrived in multiple unmarked vehicles and one agent claimed to be from the Department of Homeland Security. However, DHS has denied involvement, attributing the presence to a briefing related to a narcotics investigation by the Financial Crimes Task Force. The incident raised concerns ahead of the museum’s upcoming festivals. The museum plans heightened security measures and remains committed to its scheduled events, emphasizing its role as a key cultural institution in preserving Puerto Rican heritage. Despite the incident, museum officials are optimistic about attendance, confident that past experiences with immigration issues have prepared them to handle such challenges.