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For years, New York City has maintained its status as a sanctuary city, which has allowed local laws to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This meant ICE agents were typically barred from operating within local jails. However, with escalating concerns about gang violence, particularly in immigrant communities, the city is now reconsidering its stance.
Mayor Adams announced he would issue an executive order to allow ICE to operate at Rikers Island. This has stirred a backlash among activists who fear that such actions will undermine safety for law-abiding immigrants. They argue that targeting undocumented individuals, particularly those with criminal records, effectively punishes innocent members of immigrant communities.