NYC Council Authorizes Speaker to Sue Mayor Over ICE on Rikers

The New York City Council has authorized Speaker Adrienne Adams to sue Mayor Eric Adams over his decision to allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to operate on Rikers Island, arguing that the move violates the city’s sanctuary laws. This follows a recent executive order permitting ICE to conduct criminal investigations targeting undocumented immigrants accused of serious crimes, despite previous prohibitions against their presence on the island established by a 2014 law. Speaker Adams accused the mayor of striking a deal with the Trump administration to dismiss his federal corruption case in exchange for reopening ICE offices, a claim the mayor denies. The resolution passed by the Council highlights concerns that federal agents cannot be trusted to limit their actions to criminal enforcement. The mayor's administration argues the presence of ICE is necessary to combat violent gangs. Council members, however, express skepticism about the mayor's motives and the implications of reinstating ICE in the facility.