New York City Comptroller and Democrat mayoral candidate Brad Lander may soon face federal charges for allegedly assaulting an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent and obstructing the arrest of an illegal alien during an incident at a Manhattan courthouse on Tuesday.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Lander attempted to interfere in an immigration hearing at 26 Federal Plaza by preventing ICE agents from detaining an illegal alien facing deportation. ICE agents arrested Lander on-site. While he was released later the same day, federal prosecutors are now weighing potential criminal charges.
A spokeswoman for DHS emphasized that “no one is above the law.” A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) confirmed an investigation is ongoing and noted that assaulting federal officers and obstructing official proceedings are serious offenses under federal law.
Despite claims by New York Governor Kathy Hochul that Lander faces no current charges, SDNY officials are continuing to review the facts of the case. Federal authorities have not ruled out the possibility of charges relating to obstruction, assault, or property damage.
Lander admitted to reporters that he attempted to help the illegal alien evade custody, saying, “My goal was to get Edgardo out of the building so he can get back to his family.” He accused President Donald Trump of undermining the rule of law and denounced the immigration enforcement process.
The incident underscores rising tensions between local Democrat officials and federal immigration authorities. While local leaders like Lander publicly oppose federal immigration enforcement, interfering with federal agents may have serious legal consequences, especially under laws protecting officers from assault and obstruction.
As the investigation continues, Lander’s political future and his bid for mayor of New York City could face serious setbacks depending on the outcome of federal proceedings.
