NEW YORK – More than a dozen elected officials were arrested Thursday while protesting conditions at the New York City Immigration Holdings agency, a federal judge this week extended a court order to require the government to shape its treatment for detainees.
According to a coalition of politicians, advocates and faith leaders involved in the protests, 11 officials were arrested while trying to inspect the occupied rooms on the 10th floor of the government’s 26 Federal Plaza buildings.
Officials, including city auditor-general Brad Lander, and members of the state legislature are seeking to ensure compliance with the preliminary injunction issued Wednesday, requiring U.S. immigration and customs enforcement to eliminate dirty conditions and overcrowding.
Lander was arrested in the building after trying to detain the weapons with authorities. A few hours later, he was released.
Other officials were arrested outside the building, including city public advocate Jumaane Williams, a spokesperson for protesters said. A total of more than 75 people were detained.
