United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Secretary of Public Affairs for the Department of Homeland Security, Tricia McLaughlin, have announced the arrest of Bass Ndiaye. Ndiaye is charged with assaulting federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers using a deadly weapon. The incident took place on July 18, 2025, at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City.
“Bass Ndiaye’s alleged attempt to attack multiple ICE officers by wielding a dangerous weapon endangered numerous members of law enforcement and nearly a dozen civilians,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. He emphasized the importance of protecting federal law enforcement and communities.
Tricia McLaughlin added, “ICE arrested Bass Ndiaye—an illegal alien from Senegal—on July 17.” She noted that while in custody, Ndiaye attempted to stab law enforcement officers and others around him.
The Complaint details that on July 18, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Ndiaye was being processed at the facility when he seized a pair of scissors and moved aggressively toward security personnel and other detainees. Officers were able to restrain him due to their training.
Ndiaye, aged 22 from Senegal, faces one count of assaulting an officer using a deadly or dangerous weapon. This charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. However, any sentencing will be determined by a judge.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Arffa is leading the prosecution under the Office’s General Crimes Unit. It is important to note that charges are merely accusations at this stage; Ndiaye is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
