Charges Against Newark Mayor Dropped
Federal prosecutors have dropped a trespassing charge against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka related to an incident at Delaney Hall, a privately run ICE facility. Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba said, “After substantial deliberation, we have decided to dismiss Mayor Baraka’s misdemeanor charge of trespass for the sake of moving forward.” She added, “I will personally go with the mayor to show him that the government has nothing to conceal at this facility.”

Support for Transparency and Accountability
Baraka welcomed the decision, saying, “I am glad that the U.S. Attorney has agreed that this case should be dismissed.” He pledged continued efforts to ensure Delaney Hall follows city rules and treats detainees humanely.

Congresswoman Faces Charges
While Baraka’s charges were dropped, Rep. LaMonica McIver is facing federal charges for allegedly “assaulting, impeding, and interfering with law enforcement.” A magistrate will determine when she must surrender. Baraka defended McIver, calling her “a dear friend, a former student of mine, a Newark native,” and said, “I fully expect LaMonica to be vindicated, and I stand with her.”

Incident at ICE Facility
The charges stem from an early May protest outside Delaney Hall. Baraka, McIver, and two other lawmakers reportedly entered through facility gates after they opened for an ICE bus. DHS officials claim they bypassed security. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told Fox News, “Just because you are a member of Congress or just because you’re a public official, does not mean you are above the law.”