However, in an interview, Mayor Baraka stated that he did leave the building when asked. He claimed that he was targeted and arrested despite being present with several other individuals.
Mayor Ras Baraka was taken into custody during a visit to the Delaney Hall detention center, a facility that recently began housing migrants detained by ICE. According to interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, Baraka was warned multiple times by Homeland Security officials to leave the premises but refused, leading to his arrest for trespassing 1 2 3.
However, Mayor Baraka has stated in an interview that he indeed left the building when he was asked and targeted and arrested, despite being there with several other people.
Incident Details**
- Arrest and Charges: Baraka was arrested for violating federal law by illegally entering and remaining at the facility. He was charged under a law that allows federal charges for state law crimes committed on federal property, potentially carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine 25.
- Initial Hearing: Baraka appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Espinosa via videoconference. He was released on an unsecured bond and scheduled for another hearing on May 15 2.
- Circumstances Leading to Arrest: Baraka was part of a group, including members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation, visiting the facility. He claimed he was there to support the Congress members, not to protest, and stated he never received instructions to leave 13.
- Public Response: After his release, Baraka addressed a crowd of supporters, critiquing what he saw as authoritarian actions and announcing his intention to continue the fight. Supporters chanted “Ras for governor,” highlighting his gubernatorial bid 2.
Background and Context
Mayor Ras Baraka has been a vocal opponent of the ICE facility’s operation, particularly citing building permit issues and advocating against its opening 3. This stance aligns with his broader political activism, especially as he runs for governor of New Jersey 4.