New York City — A Venezuelan national enrolled at a Bronx public high school was detained by ICE agents last week after a judge closed his asylum case, prompting protests by hundreds of students and activists. While many decry the move, others see it as a sign that immigration laws are finally being taken seriously.
Dylan, a 20-year-old migrant who arrived in the U.S. just over a year ago, had his asylum case dismissed in court—a decision that under federal law triggers deportation for individuals in the country less than two years. ICE enforced the order outside the courtroom.
“It’s unfortunate when young people are caught in a broken system, but laws must be enforced,” said a former immigration officer who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Political Theater or Genuine Protest?
On Wednesday, over 500 students protested in Manhattan’s Union Square. Twenty-three were arrested. While there is no confirmed evidence that these protesters were paid, similar activist networks have been known to fund demonstrators—raising questions about the authenticity of some movements.
A City Out of Sync with Federal Law?
New York City officials quickly issued statements reaffirming schools as “safe spaces,” while distancing themselves from ICE’s actions. Yet critics argue that sanctuary city policies may embolden illegal activity by undermining national immigration law.
“This case reflects why we need consistent immigration enforcement,” said a spokesperson for a national border security group. “Federal law should not stop at the city line.”
“Congressmember Richie Torres who represents the Bronx district where Dylan went to the Ellis Preparatory Academy in the Bronx claims the student from Venezuela entered the country legally in April of 2024, through a Biden administration program.“
Sources: abc7ny.com/ , tv503.com
Big New York news BigNY.com , Video PIX11 News