Senator Tammy Duckworth has dismissed a staffer, Edward York, following allegations that he posed as an immigration attorney in an attempt to help a migrant who was being held in ICE custody.
A letter from ICE leadership stated that York went to a federal field office in St. Louis and falsely presented himself as the legal representative of Jose Ismael Ayuzo Sandoval, a 40-year-old undocumented migrant with multiple prior deportations and a criminal record.
Officials say York obtained Sandoval’s signature on a legal-representation form while pretending to be his attorney. Days later, an unrelated law office submitted another version of the same form, but it did not include Sandoval’s signature, raising further red flags.
Senator Duckworth released a statement confirming that York acted without authorization and that he was immediately terminated after the allegations surfaced. She emphasized that her office does not tolerate unethical or deceptive conduct of any kind.
What Happens Next:
- Authorities may review whether York could face legal consequences for impersonating an attorney.
- Duckworth’s office is expected to conduct an internal review to tighten protocols and prevent similar incidents.
- The case may fuel further political debate over immigration, congressional staff oversight, and ICE procedures.
Summary:
Sen. Tammy Duckworth has fired staffer Edward York after ICE accused him of pretending to be an immigration lawyer to free a detained migrant. The incident has triggered scrutiny of staff conduct, federal processes, and potential legal repercussions.
