Arrest Follows Dispute Over Entry
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on Friday outside a federal immigration detention site in Newark, New Jersey. Authorities say he entered restricted property and refused to leave after being asked multiple times.
Baraka Tried to Join Lawmakers at Facility
Baraka had gone to the site to join three members of Congress — Robert Menendez, LaMonica McIver, and Bonnie Watson Coleman — who were scheduled to tour the building. Witnesses say federal officers stopped him at the gate, saying only members of Congress were allowed inside. A disagreement followed, but Baraka left the secure area and rejoined protesters outside the gate.
Tense Situation Caught on Camera
Video from the scene shows Baraka speaking to a federal agent through the gate. The agent warned he might be arrested. Baraka responded that he was no longer on private property and could not be detained. Moments later, several officers approached from behind the gate and took Baraka into custody. Protesters nearby shouted in anger as he was led away in handcuffs.
Federal Officials Defend Their Actions
Federal authorities said the situation became dangerous when protesters approached the gate as a bus carrying detainees was arriving. They claimed that the group, which included elected officials, tried to enter without permission, putting people at risk.
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security said the mayor’s actions were “irresponsible” and could have been avoided with a formal request to visit the site.
Concerns About Facility Conditions
Baraka’s visit was part of a broader effort to inspect Delaney Hall, a building recently leased to U.S. immigration authorities by a private prison company for $63 million per year. The city of Newark has raised concerns about the safety of the building and lack of clear information about how many people are being held there.
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