NYC Comptroller Arrested by ICE Agents While Observing Immigration Court

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/2025/06/18/a6decd14-1c56-4a1a-8a6e-ea5a9fe805a5/1f54a9dc6c18cecc7d76b3bb16ab9c46.jpg" alt="Image of Brad Lander's arrest">

NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, a Democratic mayoral candidate, was arrested on Tuesday by ICE agents at a federal immigration court in Lower Manhattan. The arrest occurred while Lander was observing court proceedings and assisting individuals leaving the court to prevent their detainment by ICE.

The Arrest and Subsequent Release

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson stated that Lander was arrested for assaulting law enforcement and impeding a federal officer. Video footage shows Lander being handcuffed and protesting his arrest. Later, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that charges against Lander were dropped.

Lander's Statement and Political Implications

After his release, Lander stated that he was simply accompanying a defendant out of court and argued that his arrest was an example of authoritarian tactics aimed at intimidating those who speak out against ICE's actions. He emphasized the plight of immigrants facing deportation, particularly one individual named Edgardo, who remained in ICE detention.

The arrest is seen by some as a political maneuver to discourage advocacy for immigrants' rights and has drawn sharp criticism from several figures, including the ACLU of New York. There is speculation that this event is connected to similar arrests of other politicians who have publicly challenged ICE.

Reactions and Condemnations

Governor Hochul called the arrest "a sorry day for New York and our country," while Mayor Adams stated that the incident should highlight the need for all New Yorkers to feel safe. The ACLU and other local officials condemned the arrest as an abuse of power and an intimidation tactic.

Lander's wife, Meg Barnette, an attorney, described the scene and the arrest as unlawful, emphasizing that the agents did not produce a warrant and that the process was not in accordance with due process. She described the situation in court where immigrants were given deceptive dismissals with the aim of immediate removal by ICE.

What this means

The incident raises serious questions about the balance between law enforcement and the rights of individuals, particularly in the context of immigration proceedings. It also highlights ongoing tensions between ICE and immigration advocates. The arrest prompted a widespread discussion about political implications and the potential for using law enforcement to suppress political dissent.