Adams administration official’s boyfriend detained by ICE in unclear situation
The recent detention of Nathaniel Rojas, the romantic partner of a senior official within New York City’s Department of Correction, has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing debate regarding immigration policies under the Trump administration. Rojas, originally from the Dominican Republic and allegedly undocumented, was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on August 28 in Riverdale, Bronx, where he resides with Wendy Garcia, who has held the position of deputy commissioner for development and advancement at the Department of Correction since February.
Following his arrest, Rojas was transported to 26 Federal Plaza and subsequently transferred to an Orange County facility, where he has been held for over two weeks. His detention has raised significant concerns, particularly given Garcia’s high-ranking position within the city’s correctional system. She was reportedly present during Rojas’ arrest, which could complicate matters for the Adams administration, particularly amid scrutiny over its immigration stance.
On the same day as his detention, Rojas’ attorney, Reuben Kerben, filed a sealed habeas corpus petition against ICE and key figures within the Trump administration, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. A notable development occurred on September 2 when a federal judge ordered that Rojas not be removed from jurisdiction as the legal processes unfold.
The implications of Rojas’ situation are further intensified by rumors that Mayor Eric Adams may consider vacating the upcoming mayoral election in exchange for a position within the Trump administration. Last spring, Trump’s Justice Department notably dropped a federal corruption case against Adams, a move some interpret as a political quid pro quo.
Local leaders, including Brooklyn Councilwoman Alexa Aviles, have expressed concern over the administration’s silence regarding Rojas’ detention, condemning its unwillingness to take a clear stance against actions by federal authorities. Aviles characterized this inaction as characteristic of the Adams administration, which has faced criticisms regarding its treatment of immigration issues.
Adding to the complexity, Rojas’ daughter has publicly articulated her distress over her father’s circumstance, noting that he has been striving to resolve his immigration status for two years. Rojas, who has lived in the U.S. since the age of 19 and formerly worked as a financial manager, faces challenges that extend beyond his detainment, including allegations from a civil suit filed by his brother regarding financial misconduct.
As the situation continues to develop, both ICE and the Department of Homeland Security have remained silent on the specifics surrounding Rojas’ detention, complicating the narrative further. The broader implications of this case are likely to reverberate through the city, influencing discourse on immigration policy amid a tense political climate.
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