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DHS Investigates NJ Lawmakers After ICE Facility Clash

Newark Mayor Baraka, arrested for trespassing, was released as three Democratic representatives face potential charges and deny assault allegations.

Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-N.J., speaks with an officer demanding she be let into the ICE Detention office after the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Friday, May 9, 2025, in Newark, N.J.

Overview

  • Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on May 9 for federal trespassing after joining three Democratic representatives during an oversight visit to the Delaney Hall ICE facility.
  • DHS alleges that body camera footage shows the lawmakers assaulting ICE officers, including claims of body-slamming, which the representatives strongly deny.
  • The representatives assert their visit was a lawful exercise of congressional oversight rights, calling for the release of unedited body camera footage to clarify events.
  • DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that further arrests are under consideration as the department continues its investigation into the lawmakers' actions.
  • The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from Democratic leaders, who accuse the Trump administration of weaponizing law enforcement to intimidate critics.