June 4, 2025 Story by: Editor
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka filed a lawsuit against interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agent Ricky Patel on Tuesday, June 3, alleging false arrest, malicious prosecution, and defamation stemming from his May 9 arrest outside the Delaney Hall immigration detention facility in Newark.
The incident occurred when Baraka attempted to join three Democratic members of Congress—Reps. LaMonica McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Donald Payne Jr.—on an oversight visit to Delaney Hall.
Baraka was denied entry and subsequently arrested by federal agents on trespassing charges. The charges against Baraka were later dropped, while Rep. McIver was charged with assault related to the same incident.
In his lawsuit, Baraka claims that his arrest was politically motivated, aimed at undermining his gubernatorial campaign. He also alleges that federal prosecutors attempted to “humiliate and degrade” him by requiring a second fingerprinting and mug shot session following a court appearance.
The Delaney Hall facility, operated by private prison firm GEO Group under a $1 billion, 15-year contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has been a point of contention. Baraka and other local officials have opposed its operation, citing unresolved permit issues and broader concerns over federal immigration policies.
The lawsuit underscores ongoing tensions between local Democratic officials and the Trump administration over immigration enforcement and the operation of detention facilities.
Source: AP News
