Key Facts
• June 17, 2025: Brad Lander detained at NYC immigration court.
• Lander, NYC Comptroller, aims to run for mayor in November election.
• Incident occurred during protest against frequent immigrant detentions by ICE.
• Lander attempted to escort an immigrant man, Edgardo, out of court.
• ICE claims Lander assaulted officers, leading to his arrest.
• Lander released the same day, greeted by supporters protesting ICE actions.
• Lander criticized lack of legal representation for detained immigrants.
• Immigration crackdowns have sparked nationwide protests, including in Los Angeles.
• Immigration policies are a key issue in NYC mayoral race.
Summary
Brad Lander, a Democratic candidate for the upcoming New York City mayoral election, was detained on June 17, 2025, at an immigration court. Lander, who is also the city comptroller, was arrested for allegedly interfering with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers while attempting to escort an immigrant man, Edgardo, out of the court. ICE accused Lander of assaulting officers, though he was released the same day. Lander criticized the lack of legal representation for detained immigrants and highlighted systemic issues in immigration enforcement. The incident comes amid growing protests nationwide against stricter immigration policies, with New York City and Los Angeles seeing significant demonstrations. Immigration policies have become a central issue in the NYC mayoral race.
