Senator Dismisses Staffer Accused of Imitating Immigration Attorney

A Democratic senator has let go of an employee linked to claims of impersonating an immigration lawyer to help undocumented immigrants released from detention.

On Wednesday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accused Edward York, who was a campaign support coordinator for Senator Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., of falsely representing himself as a lawyer for a 40-year-old undocumented immigrant. He allegedly met with the immigrant to facilitate his release. Duckworth admitted on Monday that her office was unaware of these actions prior to the incident and subsequently terminated York’s employment, as outlined in a letter obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation.

In response to a letter from Todd Lyons, Acting Director of ICE, Duckworth wrote, “After reviewing this matter, I can confirm that neither I nor my leadership team were aware of, approved of, or directed the actions of any of our employees described in your letter.” She added that York’s termination was effective November 17, 2025.

DCNF had reached out to Duckworth’s office when DHS first made the accusations against York, but didn’t receive a reply at that time or after her letter to ICE.

On October 29, York entered an ICE facility in St. Louis, Illinois, regarding an immigration case involving a Mexican national, Jose Ismael Ayuzo Sandoval. This individual has faced deportation multiple times and has a criminal history, including a conviction for drunk driving.

According to Lyons’ letter, during his visit, York claimed to be Ayuzo’s attorney while conversing with federal agents and asked to speak directly to the detainee. “This employee allegedly did so in order to gain access to detainees and seek release from custody, using forged DHS documents,” Lyons stated.

Additionally, DHS has released video evidence related to the incident.

ICE was unable to confirm York’s status as an attorney at the time. Meanwhile, concerns increased upon discovering social media posts from the local Democratic Party that appeared to inaccurately commend federal agents for actions taken at ICE facilities.

Lyons requested clarification from Duckworth’s office before November 17 on several points, including whether York intentionally misrepresented himself and if other staff members were complicit. He emphasized that York’s conduct poses risks to law enforcement and undermines federal protocols.

“I implore all members of the U.S. House and Senate and their staffs to stop the political gamesmanship that puts law enforcement and detainees at risk,” Lyons urged.