
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson has strongly condemned the recent detention of a local student, Dylan, by federal immigration authorities, describing the incident as “outrageous” and “nothing short of an injustice.”
The student, who had enrolled in school within the borough and taken up a legal delivery job to support his younger siblings, was reportedly detained during a court appearance last week.
“Dylan did everything right. He enrolled in school in our Borough and got his license to obtain a delivery job to take care of his younger siblings,” Gibson said in a statement issued Tuesday.
“It is outrageous and horrible to learn he was detained by federal authorities last week during a court appearance. This is unacceptable and nothing short of an injustice.”
The Borough President’s comments highlight growing concerns over immigration enforcement practices in New York City, particularly involving undocumented youth who are actively participating in and contributing to their communities.
According to advocates, Dylan’s arrest not only disrupted his education and work life but also caused emotional trauma to his family and school network.
“We demand accountability for Dylan, who has been separated from his family and school community,” Gibson declared.
“We must also protect our immigrant families who are being unfairly targeted and exploited by this administration by calling for a full investigation into this incident, so this injustice does not happen to any other member of our community.”
Calls for a federal review into the incident have already begun gaining momentum, with local organizations, immigration advocates, and city leaders rallying to Dylan’s defense.
They argue that the targeting of young immigrants—especially those pursuing education and employment—sends a dangerous message and undermines the city’s commitment to being a sanctuary for all residents, regardless of immigration status.