Controversy Erupts as Newark Mayor Detained at Federal Immigration Center

Controversy Erupts as Newark Mayor Detained at Federal Immigration Center

(LibertySociety.com) – Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has been arrested on trespassing charges at a federal immigration detention center, but claims he was invited there and wrongfully detained while standing on a public sidewalk.

At a Glance

  • Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested for allegedly trespassing at a new ICE detention facility, but denies the charges
  • Baraka, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for governor, was visiting the facility with congressional representatives when detained
  • The mayor has been protesting the 1,000-bed Delaney Hall facility, citing permit issues and a state law banning private immigration detention centers
  • Federal authorities claim Baraka disregarded the law, while Governor Phil Murphy expressed outrage over the arrest
  • Witnesses reported Baraka was on public property when arrested, not on facility grounds

Detention Controversy Unfolds

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka found himself in handcuffs after being arrested on trespassing charges at the Delaney Hall Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in New Jersey. The incident occurred while Baraka was visiting the detention center with members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation. Federal authorities charged him with one count of trespassing before releasing him after an initial court appearance. The mayor has firmly denied any wrongdoing, stating he was unjustly arrested while standing on a public sidewalk outside the facility.

Baraka, who is currently seeking the Democratic party’s nomination for governor, has been a vocal opponent of the new 1,000-bed ICE facility. His opposition centers on claims that the detention center lacks proper building permits and inspections, making it both dangerous and illegal under state regulations. The conflict highlights growing tensions between local governance and federal immigration enforcement policies under the current administration.

Federal Response and Accusations

Alina Habba, interim US Attorney for New Jersey, accused Baraka of deliberately disregarding the law by trespassing on federal property. Meanwhile, Tricia McLaughlin from the Department of Homeland Security suggested the mayor’s actions were politically motivated, citing an ongoing investigation into the incident. DHS has further claimed that members of Congress attempted to “storm the gate” at the facility—an allegation the congressional representatives firmly deny, instead asserting they were physically shoved by ICE agents.

The mayor recounted his arrest experience in detail, describing being placed in a cell and subjected to fingerprinting and mugshot procedures. Despite this treatment, Baraka has remained defiant, expressing his intention to continue efforts to gain entry to the detention facility. His persistence stems from concerns about activities taking place inside the center and questions about transparency in federal detention operations.

State and Local Official Support

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed strong condemnation of Baraka’s arrest, highlighting a state law that specifically bans private immigration detention centers. This legal backdrop adds another layer to the controversy, raising questions about jurisdictional authority between state and federal agencies. Congressional representatives Robert Menendez Jr. and Bonnie Watson Coleman characterized the mayor’s arrest as an act of intimidation, suggesting it was meant to discourage oversight of the facility.

Eyewitness accounts have supported Baraka’s version of events, with multiple sources reporting that the mayor was indeed on public property—not on the facility’s grounds—when taken into custody by ICE agents. This discrepancy between federal claims and witness statements has fueled further controversy about the circumstances and legality of the arrest, casting doubt on the trespassing charges levied against the mayor.

Immigration Policy Battleground

This incident represents the latest flashpoint in ongoing conflicts between local officials and federal immigration authorities. Baraka has previously clashed with the administration over immigration policies, positioning himself as an advocate for immigrant welfare and proper oversight of detention facilities. The mayor has emphasized that his presence at Delaney Hall was to support congressional members touring the facility, not to engage in protest activities as suggested by federal officials.

The detention center dispute highlights broader questions about accountability and transparency in immigration enforcement. As both sides dig in on their positions, the controversy signals continuing tension between local governance concerns and federal immigration priorities. With Baraka planning further attempts to inspect the facility, and federal authorities maintaining their stance on trespassing violations, this conflict appears far from resolution.

​Copyright 2025, LibertySociety.com 

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR