Operation Rotten Apple: ICE Arrests Over 2,000 Immigrants in New York
Significant Immigration Enforcement Operation
Photo: @Ginasassyass/X
New York, September 2: The Secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin, revealed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted an operation resulting in the arrest of 2,197 immigrants in New York from late July to late August.
During a press briefing in New York City on Tuesday, Mullin stated that "Operation Rotten Apple" accomplished what local leaders in New York City and the state have failed to do: enhance safety in the Empire State. He emphasized that the operation proceeded without assistance from Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul.
Mullin highlighted that the operation led to the apprehension of individuals involved in serious crimes, including murder, sexual assault, child exploitation, drug trafficking, and violent offenses.
Tom Homan, the White House Border Czar, criticized Democratic leaders in New York and other areas for claiming to prioritize public safety while simultaneously preventing immigration enforcement from detaining criminals in jails, allowing them to return to the streets. "It makes no sense," he remarked.
In response, Governor Hochul contested the statements made by DHS officials, asserting during a separate press conference that New York is not a sanctuary for criminals. She accused the federal administration of misleading the public, as reported by a news agency.
"My message to the president is clear: Do not jeopardize our public safety initiatives. Do not cut funding for the police who protect us from terror threats. Avoid using people's lives as political pawns," Hochul stated.
She also demanded the release of $87 million in counterterrorism funding owed to New York, emphasizing that withholding this money betrays families affected by the 9/11 attacks, as the DHS is currently withholding 40% of the state's counterterrorism budget.
Mamdani responded by stating that if serious crimes were committed, they would communicate with federal authorities. He expressed concern that ICE's actions are criminalizing immigration itself, instilling fear among immigrants throughout the city and the nation.