Newark Mayor Sues Federal Officials Over Arrest at Immigration Center

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has initiated legal action against interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba and Department of Homeland Security official Ricky Patel, alleging false arrest, malicious prosecution, and defamation following his May 9 arrest at the Delaney Hall immigration detention center. The lawsuit, filed on June 3, contends that the arrest was politically motivated and violated Baraka's constitutional rights.

On May 9, Baraka attempted to join a congressional delegation—including Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rob Menendez, and LaMonica McIver—conducting an oversight visit at Delaney Hall, a 1,000-bed facility operated by private prison contractor Geo Group. Upon arrival, Baraka was denied entry by federal officials. After leaving the secure area and returning to public property, he was arrested by federal agents, charged with trespassing, and later released. The charges were dropped ten days later without explanation.

In his lawsuit, Baraka asserts that he was invited onto the property by a guard and agreed to leave after being threatened with arrest but was still detained. He claims that Habba and Patel acted outside their official roles, violating his constitutional rights and defaming him. Baraka is seeking damages for emotional and reputational harm.

The incident has intensified political tensions, with Baraka suggesting that federal authorities are targeting Democratic politicians, including himself, Senator Cory Booker, and Governor Phil Murphy. The lawsuit also highlights broader conflicts over immigration policies and the operation of detention facilities by private companies like Geo Group.

Delaney Hall, located in Newark's East Ward, reopened in May under a $1 billion, 15-year contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The facility's reopening has been met with significant opposition from community leaders and residents, who fear an increase in unjust arrests and family separations. On March 11, a coalition of over 30 faith-based organizations, labor unions, and immigrant rights groups gathered to protest the facility's reopening. Hazel Applewhite, CEO of the Ironbound Community Corporation, stated, "We should be focused on building schools and education, not detention centers separating families."

The legal battle unfolds amid Baraka's campaign for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in New Jersey, adding further complexity to the political landscape. Baraka continues to campaign, emphasizing affordability and vowing to resist Trump-related policies.

The case also raises questions about the legal authority of members of Congress to conduct unannounced oversight visits at detention centers run by the Department of Homeland Security. The confrontation at Delaney Hall has sparked debate over the enforcement of this authority and the treatment of elected officials during such visits.

As the lawsuit progresses, it is expected to shed light on the broader implications for immigration policy and political dynamics in New Jersey. The outcome may influence the operation of private detention facilities and the relationship between federal authorities and local officials.