New York City faces a significant challenge with a substantial population of migrants with criminal records or pending charges, sparking a heated debate about the city's sanctuary policies. Data obtained by the New York Post from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reveals that nearly 8% of the city's illegal immigrant population, totaling over 58,000 individuals, have either been convicted of a crime or have charges pending. This includes over a thousand suspected or known gang members.

Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) expressed outrage, criticizing Democrats for allegedly harboring criminals and using taxpayer money to support them. She advocated for cooperation with ICE to deport these individuals.

The situation in New York City reflects a broader national trend. ICE data indicates that a similar percentage of illegal immigrants across the U.S. have criminal backgrounds. Kenneth Genalo, head of ICE's New York City office, warned that clearing the city of these criminals would be a monumental task under current policies.

This issue has divided the New York City Council. Some members, like Councilman Robert Holden (D-Queens), argue that sanctuary city laws are jeopardizing public safety by shielding criminals. Others, like Minority Leader Joe Borelli (R-Staten Island), expressed dismay but not surprise at the data.

Mayor Eric Adams has called for adjustments to the city's sanctuary policies, suggesting it should be easier to transfer migrants suspected of serious crimes to federal authorities. However, he claims he lacks sufficient support from the city council to implement these changes. His office also blames the Biden administration's border policies for exacerbating the city's challenges.