Newark Mayor Baraka Arrested After Entry Into ICE’s Delaney Hall; Two NJ Lawmakers Also Detained

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was taken into federal custody on Friday after allegedly trespassing at Delaney Hall, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center that opened recently in Newark, New Jersey, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. Habba said Baraka ignored repeated instructions from Homeland Security Investigations agents to leave the premises and now faces a misdemeanor criminal-trespass charge. The Department of Homeland Security said the incident began when a bus carrying detainees entered the facility’s gate shortly after midday. A group of demonstrators—including New Jersey Democratic Representatives Robert Menendez Jr. and Bonnie Watson Coleman—moved through the open gate and entered the property, citing congressional oversight authority and concerns about detainee treatment. The group was detained near a guard station; no injuries were reported. City officials have objected to Delaney Hall’s opening, arguing that the facility violates local ordinances and was established without municipal approval. DHS said the center complies with federal standards, while advocates and local lawmakers are demanding greater transparency. Federal authorities are reviewing whether the lawmakers’ actions also violated trespass statutes. Baraka was transported to federal holding and is expected to make an initial court appearance in Newark; his office has not issued a statement.