Brad Lander Found Not Guilty in Federal Case Tied to Manhattan ICE Protest
A federal judge found former New York City Comptroller and congressional candidate Brad Lander not guilty of obstruction charges stemming from a 2025 protest at Manhattan’s 26 Federal Plaza, a building that houses immigration courts and federal immigration operations.
Prosecutors argued Lander blocked an elevator during a sit-in protest after officials were denied access to inspect immigrant holding areas. But U.S. Magistrate Judge Henry Ricardo ruled the government failed to prove Lander intentionally obstructed access or ignored lawful instructions.
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The protest was part of a broader dispute over conditions inside federal immigration facilities. Supporters argued elected officials were attempting legitimate oversight, while federal officials described the demonstration as disruptive.
The verdict removes a legal cloud over Lander while reinforcing the importance of intent in obstruction cases. It also adds another chapter to the ongoing conflict between immigration enforcement agencies and public officials seeking greater access to detention operations.
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