Former Deputy to Prominent Political Figure Joins President Trump's Immigration Enforcement in NYC: The Kaz Daughtry Story
A former deputy to a prominent political figure has secured a new position working with President Trump's immigration enforcement in New York City. Kaz Daughtry, a close associate of the former mayor, has been appointed as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement liaison to the city. While the specifics of his role are not fully disclosed, Daughtry will be a political appointee within Homeland Security, stationed in Suffolk County, and collaborating with ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations. It is emphasized that he will not have any law enforcement duties.
During his tenure under the former mayor, Daughtry rose through the ranks of the NYPD, culminating in his appointment as deputy commissioner of operations. He was later selected by the mayor for the deputy mayor position. Daughtry and his colleague John Chell were frequently seen engaging with officials in the Trump administration, including accompanying the president at his New Jersey golf club and attending his inauguration. Daughtry also played a significant role in a documentary about the NYPD directed by Jordan McGraw, which is currently on hold pending city approval for its release.
In a controversial move, the former mayor approved the documentary in 2025, coinciding with a payment of $500,000 to McGraw through a questionable LLC based in Texas. Dr. Phil, a well-known TV personality and former psychologist, was involved in the Adams administration, conducting interviews with the mayor and featuring Daughtry and Chell on his shows. Dr. Phil facilitated a meeting between Adams and border czar Tom Homan, leading to a contentious interview on "Fox and Friends" where Homan issued a stern warning to the mayor regarding ICE cooperation.
Following the meeting with Homan, Adams pledged to reinstate immigration officials at Rikers Island, a decision that faced legal challenges. Daughtry played a central role in identifying office space for ICE at Rikers Island and was involved in a failed immigration raid on city-funded migrant hotels in Manhattan, a plan advocated by Trump officials. Despite attempts to reach Daughtry for comment, there has been no response.
In conclusion, Kaz Daughtry's transition to a role within President Trump's immigration enforcement in New York City marks a significant development in his career trajectory. His appointment as an ICE liaison underscores the complex intersections between law enforcement, politics, and immigration policies in the city. The implications of his new position and past affiliations with key figures raise questions about the dynamics of immigration enforcement and political alliances in the current landscape.