According to witnesses and video footage of the incident, Lander was escorting a man out of the building when he was intercepted by federal agents. While attempting to prevent the immigrant's arrest, Lander demanded to see a warrant, which led to a verbal and physical exchange. In the footage, he is seen being handcuffed after refusing to leave the courtroom hallway.
"This is an abuse of power and a threat to democracy," Lander said after his release.
ICE and the Department of Homeland Security allege that Lander obstructed and assaulted federal officers, although his legal team maintains he was simply exercising his right to seek a valid warrant. The Department of Justice is still evaluating whether to file formal charges.
The arrest has sparked a wave of reactions. Governor Kathy Hochul called the incident “a disgrace” and personally accompanied Lander after his release. “When elected officials are detained without cause, we must ask ourselves: What is happening to our country?” she declared.
Lander's campaign has reported an increase in donations and public support following the incident, which could influence the June 24 primaries. Meanwhile, civil rights organizations are demanding an urgent review of ICE protocols in public spaces and courtrooms.