NYC Correction Official Violated Sanctuary City Rules
A recent report reveals that a New York City Department of Correction (DOC) employee breached the city’s “sanctuary city” rules by informing federal authorities about the release of illegal immigrant inmates. The move, which city officials described as “unwitting,” allowed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain the individuals, violating city law that prohibits cooperation with federal civil immigration enforcement.
The Department of Investigation (DOI) report found that at least two incidents involved a DOC investigator sharing sensitive information, including inmate release dates and personal details, with federal authorities. One case involved Pedro Mujica Villa Nueva, charged with assault and grand larceny, and another involved Cristian Concepcion, who was set to be released after a third-degree assault conviction.
DOI Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber emphasized that city law and DOC policy forbid the use of city resources to enforce federal immigration laws, including sharing information with federal partners. The report noted that DOC failed to provide proper guidance and training to its staff, contributing to the violations.
The report did not recommend disciplinary action but suggested corrective measures. DOC officials stated that they are implementing recommendations, including additional training for staff and clear protocols for interacting with federal immigration authorities. City Hall confirmed that the employee involved has received further training.
Mayor Eric Adams reiterated that New York City does not participate in civil immigration enforcement and emphasized that, aside from the individual staff member, no city personnel were aware of the information sharing.
The DOI report underscores the need for continued oversight and training to ensure compliance with sanctuary city regulations while maintaining the safety and rights of both the community and city employees.
