The Brian Lehrer Show ICE Family Separation in NYC
Dec 8, 2025
Gwynne Hogan, a senior reporter for The City known for her investigative work in NYC politics, dives into the shocking story of an ICE family separation involving a Chinese father and his 6-year-old son. She reveals harrowing details of their arrest during a routine check-in and the father's transfer to a distant jail. Hogan contextualizes the frequent separations, highlighting the fear within immigrant communities, and discusses legal responses aimed at reuniting families, painting a vivid picture of the ongoing immigration crisis.
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Father And Son Seized At ICE Check-In
- Gwynne Hogan recounts Fei Zhang and his six-year-old son being detained during an ICE check-in on November 26 at 26 Federal Plaza.
- The father later appeared in the adult Orange County jail locator while the child was missing from his custody, indicating separation.
Where Separated Children Typically Go
- Hogan explains children separated from parents after ICE arrests typically enter Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) custody.
- ORR rarely discloses shelter locations, creating information gaps for advocates and families.
Many Child Arrests Stay Hidden
- Hogan notes dozens of child arrests in NYC this year but few publicized cases due to fear in communities.
- Rapid deportations and mixed-status households suppress reporting and public awareness.