Adams administration official’s partner, with felony convictions, has been arrested by ICE and was employed at a city hospital.
Nathaniel Rojas, the partner of a prominent official within Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in late August 2025. Following his detention, the Trump administration announced intentions to revoke Rojas’ green card and deport him to the Dominican Republic, citing a history of criminal activity that has raised significant scrutiny and concern.
Rojas has been implicated in several criminal offenses, as court records reveal a troubling past. His offenses reportedly include identity theft, where he was accused of illegally leasing a vehicle using a customer’s identity while employed at a Manhattan Jeep dealership in 2017. Additionally, he faced charges for grand larceny after allegedly stealing a credit card from a customer’s purse and was arrested for driving under the influence while transporting a child.
Despite this history, Rojas secured a managerial position at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx earlier in 2025. This role reportedly granted him access to sensitive patient information, raising questions among hospital employees about the appropriateness of his hiring. Sources within the hospital indicate that Rojas’s position as the director of patient relations facilitated access to private data, including home addresses of patients and staff, causing considerable concern after his detention by ICE.
This situation presents a complex challenge for Mayor Adams, particularly since his administration previously encountered legal scrutiny regarding corruption allegations, which were unexpectedly dismissed. The mayor had recently suspended his reelection campaign amidst ongoing controversies. Reports suggest that figures close to Adams are exploring the possibility of his involvement in a future Trump administration, adding further layers to the unfolding situation.
Subsequent to his detention, Rojas was held at an Orange County facility while a habeas petition filed on his behalf remains pending in federal court. The judge presiding over the case has mandated that Rojas not be removed from jurisdiction until the matter is resolved. Mayor Adams’ office has reportedly engaged with Rojas’ family during this challenging period but has refrained from offering detailed comments, citing legal advice and the sensitive nature of immigration issues.
Rojas’ partner, Wendy Garcia, a deputy commissioner with the city’s Department of Correction, has significant political ties, which have also come under scrutiny. Moreover, new information has emerged regarding a lawsuit filed by Rojas’ brother, alleging identity fraud and financial misconduct related to their familial ties.
The ongoing developments surrounding both Rojas and Garcia raise critical questions about city employment practices, particularly in light of state laws that govern the hiring of individuals with criminal records. As this story continues to evolve, its implications resonate throughout New York City’s political landscape, reflecting the intersections of law, governance, and personal relationships within city administration.
As of now, Rojas remains in custody as legal proceedings unfold, with substantial implications for all parties involved in this unfolding narrative. Media News Source will continue to provide updates as this striking situation develops.
