A Democratic New York congressman has called on the NYPD to consider arresting federal immigration agents if they “illegally assault or detain” city residents, sparking a heated debate over jurisdiction and authority. Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined forces with Comptroller Brad Lander and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams at a press conference urging New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to enforce state and local laws against federal immigration officers.
Goldman’s push follows a letter to Tisch highlighting multiple instances of federal agents allegedly abusing their power, including detaining, arresting, and deporting U.S. citizens and law-abiding New Yorkers. “The rule of law still governs New York City,” Goldman stated, dismissing claims by former President Donald Trump and others that federal agents operate with unchecked authority. He argued that if ICE officers use excessive force or act beyond their legal bounds, the NYPD should intervene, including potentially arresting them.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not publicly responded to Goldman’s letter, though it previously criticized his characterization of ICE agents as engaging in “getstapo-like behavior.” DHS also barred Goldman and other lawmakers from inspecting a detention facility at 26 Federal Plaza, despite their legal right to conduct unannounced oversight visits.
Federal agents have increasingly been seen in cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago, where their presence has led to confrontations involving rubber bullets, tear gas, and lethal force. In New York, enforcement efforts have focused on government buildings and ICE check-ins, though street raids are rising. DHS maintains its operations are “HIGHLY TARGETED” and do not involve detaining U.S. citizens.
Critics, including former federal prosecutors, question the feasibility of NYPD policing federal agents, citing legal immunities for federal officers. However, former ICE official Scott Shuchart supported Goldman’s stance, arguing that state authorities must protect residents from unlawful conduct. Goldman, a former federal prosecutor, acknowledged federal immunity principles but insisted they do not apply when agents act outside their authority.
The mayoral campaigns of Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa did not comment on how they would address federal officers breaking local laws.