Adams Is Letting ICE Into Rikers. The City Council Is Suing to Stop Him.

Mayor Eric Adams is facing backlash from the New York City Council after allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to access Rikers Island, the city’s notorious jail complex. The decision has sparked outrage from immigrant rights advocates and city officials, who are now taking legal action to stop Adams from cooperating with the federal agency.

The controversy began when Adams, who took office as mayor in January, announced that he would allow ICE agents to enter Rikers Island to detain undocumented immigrants who are being released from the jail. This move has been met with criticism from activists and politicians who argue that it goes against the city’s sanctuary policies and puts immigrants at risk of being targeted and deported.

In response to Adams’ decision, the New York City Council has filed a lawsuit to block the mayor from allowing ICE access to Rikers Island. Council members have argued that the cooperation with ICE undermines the city’s commitment to protecting the rights and safety of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.

Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, who is leading the legal challenge against the mayor, stated, “We cannot allow our city to become a willing partner in ICE’s cruel and inhumane immigration enforcement practices. Allowing ICE access to Rikers Island puts vulnerable immigrants at risk and goes against our values as a sanctuary city.”

The lawsuit is expected to be a contentious legal battle, with both sides presenting their arguments in court. Mayor Adams has defended his decision, stating that he believes in upholding the law and that ICE plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety. However, critics argue that the agency’s tactics are often aggressive and can lead to the separation of families and communities.

As the legal battle unfolds, the debate over ICE’s presence on Rikers Island will continue to be a divisive issue in New York City. The outcome of the lawsuit will have far-reaching implications for the city’s immigrant population and the future of sanctuary policies in the city. It remains to be seen whether Mayor Adams will be able to defend his decision to allow ICE access to the jail complex, or if the city council will succeed in blocking the agency’s presence on Rikers Island.