Full Breakdown
Arrest of NYC Councilmember Chi Ossé During Anti-Eviction Protest Raises Concerns
4/23/2026, 9:11:54 PM
Incident Overview: Chi Ossé's Arrest
On April 22, 2026, New York City Councilmember Chi Ossé was arrested during a protest against the eviction of his constituent, Carmella Charrington, from her home in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Ossé, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America and an ally of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, was attempting to block city marshals from executing the eviction, which he and supporters allege is linked to "deed theft." This practice involves the illegal transfer of property ownership without the homeowner's consent, often targeting vulnerable populations, particularly Black homeowners.
Video footage shared on social media shows Ossé being forcibly taken to the ground by NYPD officers while protesters shouted in opposition. The NYPD reported that Ossé was charged with obstructing governmental administration and two counts of disorderly conduct, alongside three other protesters who were also arrested at the scene.
Background: The Deed Theft Crisis
Carmella Charrington's case is emblematic of a broader issue in New York City, where complaints of deed theft have surged by 240% from 2023 to 2025, according to the New York Attorney General's office. Charrington's family has lived in their home for over six decades, but they are embroiled in a legal dispute regarding the property's ownership, which was sold by a court-appointed conservator. The Attorney General's office has stated that this situation does not constitute deed theft, framing it instead as a property dispute among heirs.
Ossé has been a vocal advocate for an eviction moratorium for homeowners facing potential deed theft, arguing that no one should be evicted while their ownership claims are being contested in court. His office has called for immediate legislative action to protect homeowners like Charrington.
Official Statements & Responses
Following Ossé's arrest, Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed concern over the incident, stating, "I know he’s been on the front lines of fighting deed theft. It’s especially prevalent in his Council district." Council Speaker Julie Menin also criticized the police's actions, describing the videos of Ossé's arrest as "concerning" and indicating that she was in contact with the NYPD to ensure his safety.
In a statement after his release, Ossé described the arrest as violent, claiming he was "manhandled" and "slammed against the concrete" by officers. He announced plans to file a misconduct report against the police involved.
Criticism & Opposition
The NYPD's account of the incident suggests that Ossé physically resisted arrest and ignored multiple commands to disperse. Critics of the police response, including fellow council members and community activists, have condemned the use of force against Ossé, arguing that it reflects a broader pattern of aggressive policing in response to protests against housing injustices.
Attorney General Letitia James, while acknowledging the complexities of Charrington's case, stated she was "deeply disturbed" by the footage of Ossé's arrest, emphasizing the need for ongoing support for residents facing eviction.
What's Next: Legislative Action and Community Response
In the wake of Ossé's arrest, calls for a moratorium on evictions related to deed theft have intensified. Ossé's office has urged Governor Kathy Hochul to take immediate action to protect homeowners facing similar situations. The governor's office has pointed to existing protections but has not committed to the proposed moratorium.
As the situation develops, community advocates continue to rally support for Charrington and others affected by deed theft, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to address the housing crisis in New York City. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the intersection of housing rights, police conduct, and community advocacy in the face of gentrification and displacement.
