Former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander is scheduled to stand trial in federal court in New York City starting Wednesday following his arrest in September at a Manhattan immigration facility. According to multiple reports, Lander—then an elected official for the New York City Democratic party—was arrested by federal agents at 26 Federal Plaza, an ICE immigration court, while attempting to inspect rooms where detained immigrants are held. The arrest occurred on 18 September 2025.
Courthouse News reports that the case centers on the manner of the incident, describing Lander as blocking an elevator during the protest or inspection attempt, and it notes that the conduct alleged does not amount to a misdemeanor. NBC News similarly describes the September arrest as taking place during Lander’s protest of conditions at the detention or holding facility. The Guardian adds that Lander is a Democratic candidate running for a congressional seat being vacated or contested by incumbent Dan Goldman’s district, which includes parts of lower Manhattan and northwest Brooklyn.
The proceedings focus on the federal charges tied to the September arrest, with trial underway in New York City federal court.
