Sher Tremonte is proud to announce the acquittal of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander in the criminal case arising from his arrest at 26 Federal Plaza last September while seeking to inspect the inhumane conditions of detention for immigrants arrested after attending their court appearances. The case drew substantial public and media attention, including coverage of the underlying issues concerning ICE’s arrest policies and detention conditions, the bench trial in the Southern District of New York, and the defense’s argument that Mr. Lander and other elected officials were there to conduct oversight rather than obstruct law enforcement.
The defense team was led by partner Deirdre von Dornum, with important contributions from associates Michael Bass and Eleuthera Sa, and paralegal Julia Sussman. Their work reflected a focused and strategic defense in a matter that unfolded under intense scrutiny.
“Brad Lander was acquitted today of a crime he did not commit: unreasonably obstructing the usual use of elevators on federal property,” von Dornum said. “Judge Ricardo’s thoughtful findings demonstrated once again the importance of the rule of law in preventing the Executive Branch – whether ICE or DOJ – from using the bludgeons of arrest and prosecution to suppress lawful protest. Mr. Lander fought this ‘petty’ charge to show that he – and numerous other state and local officials – will not be moved from the fight for freedom and justice for all the people of New York.”
The acquittal underscores Sher Tremonte’s strength in high-profile criminal defense and its ability to achieve excellent results in complex, closely followed matters.