New York, NY — On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security detained eleven Democratic politicians from New York City following an incident at 26 Federal Plaza, where protesters reportedly attempted to access the 10th-floor offices of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including holding cells.
Among those detained was New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who had previously been arrested earlier this summer during a protest involving ICE at the same location. The group also included several members of the New York State Legislature from both the Senate and Assembly.
BREAKING: Eleven NY city and state elected officials were just arrested by Department of Homeland Security officers.
That’s after they demanded to inspect ICE holding rooms at 26 Federal Plaza and refused to leave until they were granted entry.
— Arya Sundaram (@arya_sundaram) September 18, 2025
According to a report from Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, ICE sources stated that the group of politicians and protesters attempted to enter secure areas on the 10th floor, while other demonstrators outside the building were reportedly blocking ICE vans. In response, ICE locked down the floor and stationed additional security personnel at the entrance.
ICE sources also noted that individuals currently held on the 10th floor include detainees facing serious criminal charges, such as:
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A confirmed MS-13 gang member convicted of weapons possession and driving under the influence
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An undocumented individual in possession of 2 kilograms of fentanyl
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An undocumented person convicted of gun possession
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An individual under a final order of removal, previously arrested for operating drones near the White House
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A person convicted of drug trafficking in Switzerland
NEW: Per multiple ICE sources, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander & other politicians & protesters are currently trying to get into the 10th floor ICE office & holding cells at 26 Federal Plaza in NYC, while other protesters are blocking ICE vans from leaving the facility downstairs.… pic.twitter.com/v9YIufWDZ3
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) September 18, 2025
Video via ICE source showing protesters being arrested by NYPD and led onto buses while detained in zip ties. pic.twitter.com/f4v0NJQnKD
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) September 18, 2025
ICE has not publicly released official statements regarding the incident or any potential charges for those detained during the protest.