Police Chief Asserts NYPD’s Non-Cooperation with ICE
On Tuesday, Police Chief Jessica Tisch addressed criticisms surrounding the NYPD’s involvement during recent protests, reiterating that the department does not collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on civilian immigration enforcement. The comments come after a group of protesters targeted hospital workers last week in response to federal actions.
Police Response Prevents Escalation at Hospital Protest
Tisch highlighted the NYPD’s intervention during a protest outside Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn on May 2, where an anti-ICE crowd attempted to prevent federal officers from leaving the facility with detainees. She credited police officers’ actions for averting potential violence during the incident.
Commitment to Public Safety
“When a police officer stands between an armed ICE officer and a crowd of protesters, he is not supporting immigration enforcement,” Tisch stated at the ABNY Power Breakfast held at 583 Park Avenue. She reinforced that the primary duty of NYPD officers is to maintain order and protect human life, much like military personnel.
Support from City Leadership
Mayor Zoran Mamdani echoed Tisch’s position, affirming that the NYPD acted independently of ICE during the hospital standoff. His support underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing community concerns related to immigration enforcement.
Catalyst of the Protest
The protests stemmed from the detention of Chidozie Wilson Okeke, a Nigerian national described by federal officials as being in the country illegally with a history of arrest for serious offenses. While in federal custody for examination of his alleged injuries, word spread that ICE was detaining immigrants at Bushwick Hospital, inciting the crowd to disrupt emergency services.
Criticism from Activists
Following the incidents, left-wing activists and public officials criticized the NYPD’s involvement, arguing that the department was enabling ICE operations. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, who is also campaigning for a congressional seat, mentioned on social media that “New York City is a sanctuary city” and urged the NYPD to avoid any support for ICE.
Emphasis on Community Safety
Tisch defended the NYPD’s actions, suggesting that their presence had averted fatal confrontations that have occurred elsewhere, citing tragic incidents in Minneapolis. “What transpired outside Wyckoff Medical Center just over a week ago was a direct result of officers conducting themselves with professionalism despite the chaos,” she stated in her remarks.
Future Collaboration with Federal Agencies
While Tisch affirmed the NYPD’s ongoing collaboration with federal agents to tackle violent crime, she expressed support for Governor Kathy Hochul’s sanctuary bill. This proposed legislation aims to limit local police cooperation with ICE and protect sensitive locations from federal intervention. It is expected to be included in the forthcoming state budget discussions.
