Brad Lander found not guilty of blocking elevator at New York ICE facility
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- New York City Democrat Brad Lander was acquitted by a Manhattan federal judge of blocking an elevator during a protest at an ICE office, with the judge noting Lander appeared tired rather than intentionally obstructive.
- Lander and 10 other politicians were arrested in September 2025 after attempting to inspect detention rooms amid allegations of overcrowding and poor conditions, and subsequently sitting on the elevator bank floor.
- Prosecutors failed to prove Lander intended to block the area, as the court found the politicians complied with orders and that their chanting was a civil rights anthem rather than an obstruction attempt.
- Judge Henry Ricardo described Lander’s testimony as credible despite being self-serving, leading to his formal acquittal on the obstruction charge.
- After the verdict, Lander emphasized the protest’s message of commitment to civil rights and the rule of law, expressing relief and determination outside the courthouse.