NYC Mayor Celebrates Release of Detained Student

Dylan Lopez Contreras, a public school student, was detained by ICE for 10 months.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 4:34am

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In response to the news of the release of Dylan Lopez Contreras, the first New York City public school student detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani released a statement celebrating his return home to the Bronx after 10 months of detention.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant students in the U.S. education system, as well as the mayor's commitment to supporting all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status.

The details

Dylan Lopez Contreras was taken into custody by ICE during what was supposed to be a routine immigration hearing last May. Despite the injustice of his detention, the mayor praised Contreras' strength, resilience, and courage throughout the ordeal.

  • Dylan Lopez Contreras was detained by ICE in May 2025.
  • Contreras was released from detention in March 2026.

The players

Dylan Lopez Contreras

A New York City public school student who was detained by ICE for 10 months.

Zohran Kwame Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who released a statement celebrating Contreras' release.

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What they’re saying

“Our City is overjoyed that Dylan has finally been released from detention and will be back home with his loved ones in the Bronx.”

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

“What should have been a time for him to focus on finishing high school instead became ten long months of isolation, after he was taken into custody at what was supposed to be a routine immigration hearing last May.”

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

“Throughout this injustice, Dylan has shown remarkable strength, resilience, and courage. I wish him a smooth and joyful return to his life, his community, and his future here in New York City. He is a New Yorker, and our city is glad to have him home.”

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The mayor's office has not announced any specific next steps, but the case is likely to continue to be monitored by immigrant advocacy groups and local officials.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant students in the U.S. education system, as well as the mayor's commitment to supporting all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status.