ICE Agent Removed from Duty After Viral Courthouse Shoving Incident

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent has been stripped of his duties. This follows a viral video showing him shoving a woman to the ground. The incident occurred last Thursday at a Manhattan courthouse.

The Department of Homeland Security has condemned the officer’s actions. An official investigation is now underway.

Video Captures Aggressive Confrontation at Federal Plaza

The video, obtained by TMZ, shows a tense exchange. The woman was pleading for her husband’s release from ICE custody. The agent, in street clothes with a badge, repeatedly said “adios” to her.

He then aggressively grabbed and pushed her. She fell to the floor, hitting her head. It remains unclear if she sustained serious injuries.

At least a dozen people witnessed the event. Two young children, reportedly the woman’s, were seen nearby in distress. According to The New York Times, the family had arrived from Ecuador last year.

Official Condemnation and Immediate Fallout

The response from officials was swift. Tricia McLaughlin, an Assistant Secretary at DHS, called the conduct “unacceptable.” She confirmed the agent was relieved of his current duties.

“Our ICE law enforcement are held to the highest professional standards,” McLaughlin stated. The full investigation will determine further action.

Local politicians expressed outrage. City Comptroller Brad Lander described the agent’s actions as “violent.” He noted the woman required hospital care and posed no threat.

Representative Dan Goldman said the woman and her children fled to his office for safety. He joined calls for strict disciplinary measures against the agent involved.

Broader Context of Courthouse Arrests

The incident happened at 26 Federal Plaza. This building houses immigration courts and an ICE field office. It has become a common site for arresting migrants at routine hearings.

Hundreds of such detentions have occurred there this year. Some arrests have been criticized as overly aggressive or unlawful. The event has intensified debate over enforcement tactics.

Mayor Eric Adams has previously supported some federal measures. However, he recently asked the government to stop making arrests at city immigration courts. A protest by “New Yorkers Against ICE” drew hundreds to Foley Square following the video’s release.

This ICE agent courthouse incident highlights ongoing tensions in immigration enforcement. The investigation’s outcome will be closely watched by advocates and officials alike.

Thought you’d like to know

What sparked the investigation into the ICE agent?

A viral video showing the agent shoving a woman to the floor prompted the investigation. The DHS deemed the behavior unacceptable. The agent was immediately relieved of duty.

Where did the incident take place?

It occurred at 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan. This location houses immigration courts and an ICE field office. It is a frequent site for migrant arrests.

Was the woman injured during the confrontation?

The video shows her hitting her head on the floor. City Comptroller Brad Lander stated she needed hospital care. The exact extent of her injuries is not fully known.

How have local officials reacted?

Officials like Rep. Dan Goldman have condemned the agent’s actions. They are demanding accountability and disciplinary action. The incident has drawn significant political criticism.

What is the status of the ICE agent now?

The agent has been relieved of his current duties. He is on administrative leave pending the outcome of the full investigation. His future with the agency remains uncertain.

Trusted Sources

TMZ, The New York Times, Department of Homeland Security statements.