NYC Judge Halts Adams' Plan to Allow ICE Agents Back on Rikers Island

A New York judge has temporarily blocked Mayor Eric Adams' plan to allow federal immigration agents back onto Rikers Island jail complex. This follows a lawsuit filed by the New York City Council, which alleges a "corrupt quid pro quo bargain" with the Trump administration.

The lawsuit claims Mayor Adams made a deal with the Trump administration to drop criminal charges against him in exchange for allowing ICE agents back on Rikers Island. Adams denies these accusations, stating the presence of ICE will aid in gang and drug investigations, while stressing that they will not be involved in civil immigration enforcement.

Judge Mary Rosado's order prevents the city from negotiating or implementing any agreement with the federal government until a hearing on April 25th. The city has stated it will comply with the judge's order.

The presence of ICE agents at Rikers Island was previously banned in 2014 under New York City's sanctuary laws. The Council maintains its position to protect the rights of all New Yorkers.

First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, tasked with overseeing the decision-making process surrounding the return of ICE to Rikers Island, stated that discussions with the federal government are ongoing.

This legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between local sanctuary policies and federal immigration enforcement. The outcome of the April 25th hearing will significantly impact the future of ICE's presence at Rikers Island and the broader debate around sanctuary city policies.