Immigration Officials Detain NYC Council Employee in Nassau, Speaker Reports

A New York City Council employee was detained by federal immigration authorities during a routine appointment in Nassau County. City Council Speaker Julie Menin confirmed the incident and revealed details regarding the employee’s status.

Details of the Incident

The employee, who has been a data analyst for roughly one year, reportedly had authorization to live and work in the U.S. until October 2026. After the detention, he contacted the Council’s Human Resources department for assistance. U.S. Representative Dan Goldman stated that the employee is of Venezuelan descent, but further details were withheld to protect his identity.

Response from City Officials

• Speaker Menin emphasized the urgency of securing the employee’s immediate release.
• She criticized the federal government for what she termed an “apparent overreach.”
• Menin noted that this is the first case of a Council staff member being detained by immigration officials.

Menin expressed her frustration, stating, “As speaker of the City Council, I cannot even call this ICE detention center to collect information or demand his release.”

Federal Government’s Stance

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the employee was said to lack work authorization. A DHS spokesperson indicated that he entered the U.S. in 2017 on a tourist visa and was required to leave by October 22 of that year. The spokesperson further warned about the consequences of illegal entry into the United States.

Political Reactions and Broader Implications

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who expressed outrage and called for the employee’s release. “This is an assault on our democracy, on our city, and our values,” Mamdani stated.

Rep. Goldman echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the case is indicative of a larger crackdown on immigrants, including those with valid legal status. He stated, “Secret masked police are targeting those who are trying to serve the public as employees of the New York City Council.”

• Menin linked the situation to a broader pattern of excessive force by immigration authorities.
• This therapy coincides with calls for legislative changes in New York and New Jersey to limit local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

In the wake of recent events, including a tragic incident involving a federal immigration officer, lawmakers are re-assessing how local agencies interact with federal authorities. The ongoing situation highlights a growing sentiment among many lawmakers advocating for the rights and protection of immigrants.