Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested Friday at the Delaney Hall ICE detention center after a confrontation with federal agents during a congressional visit.
According to U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, Baraka ignored multiple warnings to leave the facility, prompting his arrest for trespassing. The incident, captured by local media, showed Baraka being handcuffed following a heated exchange. Baraka was attempting to join a congressional delegation inspecting the facility, but federal agents deemed some of his actions unauthorized. Delaney Hall, operated under a federal contract, has faced scrutiny over transparency and safety issues. Newark officials recently filed legal action for greater oversight. Baraka had previously criticized the facility’s conditions, citing violations that endangered both detainees and staff. Homeland Security officials condemned his actions as endangering ICE operations and safety.