New York Lawmakers and Activists Arrested During Protest Against ICE Facility Access

Lawmakers, immigrant-rights groups, and faith leaders were taken into custody in Manhattan after staging coordinated protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Demonstrators blocked entrances to a federal complex where detainees are processed and demanded accountability for conditions inside the agency’s intake facility.

According to officials, more than 70 people participated with arrests made both outside and inside the building. Protesters formed a blockade at the underground garage ramp used by ICE transport vehicles, forcing the NYPD to intervene. Inside the building, 11 elected officials were detained after attempting to access the 10th floor intake site, which has drawn criticism for alleged mistreatment of detainees.

Among those arrested was New York City Comptroller Brad Lander who had previously been detained in June during a similar protest. Lander has remained vocal in his opposition to ICE practices, which include arresting immigrants immediately after court hearings. Other city and state officials, including council members and assembly members, joined him in defying federal orders.

Participants stressed that their actions were aimed at exposing what they described as inhumane treatment. Lawmakers accused ICE of creating fear in immigrant communities, describing instances of detainees being held without adequate food, medical care, or due process. Some officials went further, reiterating long-standing calls for the agency to be abolished.

Outside, demonstrators held signs and chanted until police moved in. NYPD’s Strategic Response Group made multiple arrests, including New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and council members Tiffany Cabán and Sandy Nurse. Protesters were handcuffed with zip ties and escorted into vans.

Federal authorities defended their response. Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, dismissed the demonstration as a publicity stunt and accused lawmakers of endangering personnel and detainees. She also alleged that many of those in custody at the facility had serious criminal records.

Tensions escalated further when witnesses reported ICE staff zip-tying doors and covering windows with tape to prevent elected officials from looking inside the intake unit. Lawmakers argued that these actions reinforced concerns about secrecy and abuse.

In addition to demanding access to detainee areas, activists renewed pressure on the state legislature to pass the New York for All bill, which would prohibit state and local agencies from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement.

Lawmakers vowed to return for more demonstrations.

New York Lawmakers and Activists Arrested During Protest Against ICE Facility Access