NYC Comptroller Brad Lander Returns to Immigration Court After ICE Arrest

Return to Immigration Court

• 🏛️ NYC Comptroller Brad Lander returned to federal immigration court to observe proceedings, just three days after his detention by ICE agents.
• ⚖️ Lander stated he is not afraid to return but is concerned for the rule of law and ensuring due process rights for immigrants.

Tuesday's Incident and Charges

• ✋ On Tuesday, Lander was handcuffed by ICE agents while escorting a detained individual named Edgardo out of court.
• 📄 The Department of Homeland Security initially accused Lander of assaulting law enforcement and impeding a federal officer.
• ❓ Lander confirmed that formal charges were not filed, and the case remains under review.

Lander's Motivation and Concerns

• 🤝 Lander explained his actions were focused on staying calm, asking for a warrant, and being present for Edgardo.
• 😥 He expressed fear not for himself, but for Edgardo and the state of democracy and the rule of law.
• ❓ Lander currently does not know Edgardo's immigration status.
• 📍 He vowed to continue showing up at the courthouse in lower Manhattan.

Official Response

• 🗣️ ICE in the Southern District of New York declined to comment on the incident.
• ⏳ CBS News has not yet received a response from ICE.