Newark, N.J., Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested While Protesting $1 Billion ICE Detention Center Contract

Newark, N.J., Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested While Protesting $1 Billion ICE Detention Center Contract

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested Friday while protesting the re-opening of Delaney Hall, a 1,000-bed ICE detention center in Newark, run by GEO Group. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba said Ras Baraka “chose to disregard the law” after trespassing and defying orders to leave.

The Democrat, currently running for governor, opposes the center over permit concerns. Witnesses said Baraka was barred from joining a facility tour with Reps. Menendez, McIver, and Watson Coleman. Activist Viri Martinez said, “There was yelling and pushing… They put Baraka in handcuffs.” DHS disputed that a tour was planned, claiming protesters “stormed the gate.”

Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin called it “a bizarre political stunt.” In video, a federal agent told Baraka, “You are not a Congress member.” Moments later, ICE agents dragged him away in handcuffs as protesters chanted, “Shame.” GEO Group’s CEO said the $1 billion contract could generate $60 million annually. Baraka has sued to stop it.

 

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VIA: News12 New Jersey