Rep. Ritchie Torres Demands Answers from DHS + ICE on Detention of High-School Student and NY-15 Constituent

Today, Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) wrote to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Acting Director Immigration and Customs Enforcement Todd Lyons. The full letter reads (PDF attached):

“I am writing with deep concern regarding the recent detention of Dylan, a 20-year-old high school student, legal entrant to the United States, and a constituent of mine in New York’s 15th Congressional District in the Bronx. Dylan was detained by ICE agents on May 21, 2025, following the dismissal of his immigration case in court; a decision that has left his school, his community, and even me — his elected Congressional representative — shocked and searching for answers.

“Dylan arrived to the United States in April 2024 legally through the Biden Administration’s humanitarian parole program. Since then, he has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and responsibility. He enrolled full-time at ELLIS Prep Academy, obtained a work permit, held a job, and fought to help his family transition out of homelessness. He has no criminal record. He is, by every standard, contributing to his community and making good on the promise of the American dream.

“Last week, Dylan was met outside the courtroom by ICE agents and taken into custody. The basis for his detention hinges on a disturbing trend of deporting those without criminal records and without any evidence of criminal conduct.

“I am requesting clarity on the following urgent questions:

• What is the justification for detaining this young man?
• How does his removal serve the public interest or promote public safety?
• Where is Dylan right now? What is his condition?

“I am also requesting immediate confirmation that Dylan’s full legal rights are being upheld. He must be afforded access to counsel, medical care, and the opportunity to contest his removal. Anything less would be a fundamental miscarriage of due process.

“This incident will cause a deeply chilling effect on immigrant communities in my district, throughout New York City, and across the nation. Families will be too afraid to show up to court — even if they are fully adhering to the law. Students will question whether their school is a safe place, increasing absenteeism and setting them back educationally. ICE’s actions have undermined trust in the very institutions meant to offer structure and protection to those seeking to lawfully build new lives in America. Dylan’s case sends a message to the people of New York that for the Trump administration, instilling fear in the public is more important than following the law.

“I strongly urge you to review Dylan’s case with fairness, compassion, and common sense. Immigration enforcement should be rooted in public safety, not in punishing young people who are working hard, playing by the rules, and striving to build better lives.

“Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.”