NYC Council Member Chi Ossé Arrested at Protest

In a startling turn of events, New York City Council Member Chi Ossé was arrested on April 22, 2026, while participating in an anti-eviction protest in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. The incident occurred as Ossé joined demonstrators aiming to prevent an eviction linked to an alleged deed theft case, highlighting the ongoing struggles for housing rights in the city.

Protest Against Deed Theft Turns Confrontational

Deed theft, a serious form of property fraud where ownership is illegally transferred, has become a growing concern, particularly in New York City’s communities of color. During the protest, videos captured Ossé engaging with police officers who were detaining another demonstrator. The situation escalated quickly, with officers seen grabbing the council member, forcing him to the ground, and placing him in handcuffs.

The footage of the arrest quickly circulated on social media, drawing immediate attention and concern from city leaders and housing advocates alike. Ossé’s office confirmed his detention at a local precinct, though specific charges were not immediately released. The NYPD stated that multiple individuals, including Ossé, were arrested after allegedly refusing orders to disperse.

Calls for Protection and Review

Following the arrest, Ossé’s office released a statement emphasizing the protest’s goal: to halt an eviction stemming from what they described as fraudulent property claims. The statement also reiterated calls for enhanced protections, including a proposed moratorium on evictions connected to suspected deed theft cases. This incident underscores the deep-seated tensions surrounding housing rights, eviction practices, and property fraud in New York.

Political allies, like Zohran Mamdani, expressed concern over the arrest, calling it “concerning” and vowing a thorough review. City Council Speaker Julie Menin also voiced her worries, noting initial reports suggested Ossé was “aggressively pushed.” Her office is reportedly in contact with both the NYPD and Ossé’s team to ensure his safety and facilitate his release.

The Impact of Deed Theft

Advocates point out that deed theft disproportionately impacts Black homeowners, often leading to displacement and protracted legal battles. Ossé’s arrest during this protest brings renewed focus to these critical issues and the methods used to combat them.