Empire State Review Team 
NYC Council Files Lawsuit Against Mayor Adams Over ICE Return to Rikers
NEW YORK – The New York City Council has initiated legal action against Mayor Eric Adams regarding the administration’s controversial decision to reintroduce federal immigration enforcement agents to Rikers Island.
Recent ICE Operations Lead to Controversy
This lawsuit comes on the heels of a recent operation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), during which more than 200 undocumented immigrants were apprehended in and around New York City. This week-long operation, which took place from April 6 to April 12, specifically targeted individuals linked to transnational criminal organizations, including notorious gangs operating within the region.
- MS-13
- Tren de Aragua
- Sureños
- 18th Street gangs
Wider Impact of Immigration Enforcement
The recent ICE actions were not confined to the five boroughs; they extended into Long Island and the Lower Hudson Valley, indicating a comprehensive approach to addressing undocumented immigration and associated criminal activity across a broader geographic area.
Details of the Arrests
Out of the 206 individuals arrested during this operation, a significant portion—121—had prior serious criminal offenses or were currently facing charges for serious crimes, including:
- Murder
- Assault
- Arson
- Sex crimes
- Drug-related offenses
- Firearms violations
Among those apprehended were:
- Edimar Alejandra Colmenares Mendoza, 22, a Venezuelan citizen associated with the Tren de Aragua gang, facing charges related to conspiracy and theft.
- Camilo Cesar Gonzales-Encalada, 23, from Spain and linked to the Sureños gang, with a history of firearm possession and assault convictions.
- Alexander Steven Jimbo-Perez, 25, an Ecuadoran national, whose criminal history includes assault and child endangerment allegations.
Statements from Officials
In light of these arrests, acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons expressed his support for the operation, stating, “New York is much safer today because of the hard work of ICE and our law enforcement partners. I commend the efforts of everyone involved, as all were truly committed to the success of this operation.”
Conclusion
The intersection of local governance, law enforcement, and immigration policies continues to provoke debate in New York City. As the lawsuit unfolds, it will highlight the complexity of immigration enforcement and the differing perspectives on ensuring public safety while navigating the rights of residents.
