Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced Tuesday that a sweeping federal operation in New York has resulted in the arrest of over 2,100 individuals deemed public safety threats. During a press conference detailing the success of "Operation Rotten Apple," Mullin sharply criticized New York's leadership, including Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, for what he described as a failure to cooperate with federal law enforcement and for policies that he contends allow criminals to remain on the streets.
Mullin stated that "Operation Rotten Apple" was initiated due to what he characterized as obstruction from New York City's mayor, who he claimed attempted to cut the NYPD's budget and refused to cooperate with federal authorities. He also asserted that Governor Hochul has refused to work with federal agencies.
"Over the last 30 days, Operation Rotten Apple has taken over 2,100 of the worst criminals off our streets statewide," Mullin said, highlighting specific cases. Among those arrested was a 39-year-old Indian national with an INTERPOL red notice for an alleged rape in Germany. Another individual, a 50-year-old Ukrainian citizen, reportedly has a criminal history including convictions for kidnapping, abduction, possession of a weapon, and murder. Mullin attributed the presence of such individuals on New York streets to the state's and city's sanctuary policies.
Mullin also alleged that New York's Democratic politicians have lobbied for the release of over 13,000 undocumented immigrants. He criticized Mayor Mamdani's past statements, including remarks calling ICE raids "cruel, inhumane, and do nothing to protect public safety," and contrasted them with the goals of law enforcement.
Governor Hochul was specifically criticized for terminating 287(g) agreements, which facilitate cooperation between local police departments and federal agents. Mullin noted that seven of the nation's safest cities cooperate with ICE through the 287(g) program and suggested that, in private, many local sheriffs and police chiefs wish to cooperate with federal authorities but are prevented by "radical local politicians."
Mullin indicated that the federal government is prepared to deploy additional agents to New York and other cities where local leadership is not cooperating with federal immigration enforcement. "Because local leadership refuses to cooperate through the 287(g) program, we will send as many personnel as necessary to restore law and order," he stated. He added that the Trump administration is committed to restoring safety in New York in conjunction with ICE and DHS.
Mullin defended the administration's strict immigration enforcement policies, asserting that they are designed to hunt down and deport individuals in the country illegally and are crucial for maintaining law and order. He emphasized that restoring law and order is a bipartisan issue supported by a significant majority of the public.