Mayor Adams and Border Czar Homan Announce ICE Return to Rikers Island

New York City Mayor Eric Adams appeared with President Donald Trump’s border czar, Thomas Homan, on FOX & Friends Friday, February 14th, announcing plans to allow federal immigration agents to operate at Rikers Island. The decision changes the city’s long-standing sanctuary policies and increases cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

During the interview, Adams confirmed he would sign an executive order permitting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to assist with criminal investigations at Rikers Island, focusing on gang violence and individuals convicted of serious crimes. The move restores ICE’s presence at the jail complex for the first time since 2014 when city law barred the Department of Correction from granting the agency access.

“If he [Adams] doesn’t come through, I’ll be back in New York City,” Homan said, making clear the Trump administration expects full cooperation in regards to immigration enforcement. Homan added that he had pushed for Adams to take action and secured a commitment from the mayor. “I wasn’t going to leave with nothing,” he said. “Now I got him on the couch in front of millions of people.”

Adams, who has repeatedly called for stricter immigration enforcement against illegal immigrants accused of violent crimes, emphasized that his decision aligns with public safety goals. However, he also reaffirmed that New York City remains a sanctuary city. “We will always be. This has always been a city of immigrants,” he said.

The announcement comes as Adams faces scrutiny over the Justice Department’s recent decision to drop federal corruption charges against him. The move led to the resignation of top federal prosecutor Danielle Sassoon and five other high-ranking DOJ officials, raising concerns about political interference. Adams dismissed the controversy, calling it “silly.”

The executive order, expected to be signed in the coming days, will likely intensify the debate over immigration enforcement in New York City.