Yonkers immigration debate highlights divide over New York ban on local police cooperation with ICE
The discussion took place during a Democratic town hall at the Yonkers Riverfront Library, where protesters gathered outside.
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A debate over immigration enforcement unfolded in Yonkers Monday as Republicans criticized New York’s ban on local police participation in federal immigration enforcement, while Democrats defended the law as a safeguard for constitutional rights.
The discussion took place during a Democratic town hall at the Yonkers Riverfront Library, where protesters gathered outside.
The discussion took place during a Democratic town hall at the Yonkers Riverfront Library, where protesters gathered outside.
“People are very upset with this illegal immigration. Stop handcuffing the police,” Merante said.
Supporters say local cooperation with ICE helps remove dangerous individuals. Resident Bruce Barton agreed, saying immigrants should follow the legal process.
Stewart-Cousins defended the state’s policy, saying ICE has become “an out-of-control, really unaccountable law enforcement agency” and criticizing warrantless arrests by masked agents.
The debate follows a U.S. District Court decision denying the federal government’s request to block New York’s ban on local participation in 287(g) agreements, which allow local agencies to assist with certain federal immigration enforcement duties. The federal government has not yet appealed the ruling.
