Judge Blocks Rikers ICE Office Citing Corruption Claims

A New York state judge has indefinitely blocked Mayor Eric Adams from allowing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to reopen an office at the Rikers Island jail complex, following a City Council lawsuit alleging the move was part of a corrupt quid pro quo with the Trump administration to drop federal corruption charges against Adams. Judge Mary Rosado found the City Council had shown a likelihood of success in proving at least the appearance of such a deal and expressed concern that the executive order could irreparably damage New York's reputation as an immigrant-friendly city. The judge also ruled that Adams’ first deputy mayor, who signed the executive order, could not be considered impartial. City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, a mayoral candidate, called the ruling a victory against Trump's immigration agenda and a protection of civil rights. Mayor Adams and his administration have denied making any improper deal, stating the order was meant to target violent transnational gangs. The injunction will remain in place as the case continues, marking the third time Judge Rosado has sided with the City Council in the dispute.