DHS warns of more Dem arrests after Newark ICE detention center protest — as Mayor Ras Baraka blames agency for escalation
The Trump administration issued a warning to three Democratic lawmakers who participated in a protest at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Newark, New Jersey. The protest, which resulted in the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, involved New Jersey Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rob Menendez, and LaMonica McIver.
Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated that there may be more arrests coming as they have body camera footage showing the lawmakers assaulting ICE enforcement officers, including body slamming a female officer. The investigation is ongoing, and arrests are “on the table.”
US Attorney Alina Habba confirmed Baraka’s arrest for committing trespass and ignoring warnings to leave the ICE detention center. Baraka, however, blamed DHS for his arrest, claiming they escalated the situation.
Baraka was released from custody Friday night after being taken into custody by Homeland Security Investigations officers. He maintained that he did not break any laws and was not instructed to leave the premises by any ICE officers or security guards.
Newark City Councilmember Kenyatta Stewart supported Baraka’s account of the events, stating that he was invited into the facility and only arrested after complying with a request to leave.
Mayor Baraka has been a vocal critic of the ICE facility, claiming it is operating illegally. The facility, owned by GEO Group, denies these allegations.
The protest and subsequent arrest of Mayor Baraka drew a crowd of roughly 100 demonstrators in Foley Square in Lower Manhattan. The event was attended by mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.
Overall, the situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the actions of elected officials in challenging ICE policies and practices. The incident underscores the complex relationship between federal agencies, local governments, and advocacy groups in addressing immigration issues.
