Judge Extends Block on ICE Rikers Island Office

A Manhattan Supreme Court judge has extended a temporary restraining order for at least another month, blocking Mayor Eric Adams' plan to allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to operate an office on Rikers Island. The New York City Council, which filed the lawsuit, alleges the move is a corrupt quid pro quo with the Trump administration, which recently helped have federal corruption charges against Adams dropped. Council lawyers argue the plan would undermine sanctuary city laws, erode trust in immigrant communities, and enable broad deportations, not just those of serious offenders. The Adams administration counters that the initiative is aimed at public safety and combating violent gangs, labeling the Council’s claims as speculative and politically motivated. The restraining order prohibits ICE operations on Rikers until a formal hearing is held, which is not yet scheduled. The case underscores ongoing legal and political tensions over federal immigration enforcement in New York City.