Newark, N.J. – May 10, 2025 — Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on May 9 during a tense standoff with federal agents outside the Delaney Hall Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Newark. The incident unfolded as Ras Baraka joined a group of Democratic lawmakers for what they described as a constitutionally mandated oversight visit of the controversial, privately operated immigration center.
Ras Baraka, who is also a Democratic candidate for New Jersey governor, was charged with trespassing after allegedly ignoring multiple warnings to leave the premises. The protest was centered on the Delaney Hall facility, which recently reopened under a federal contract with the private prison operator GEO Group. The facility has drawn criticism over its compliance with local permits and the ethics of private immigration detention.
Accompanying Ras Baraka were U.S. Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman, LaMonica McIver, and Rob Menendez. The lawmakers, citing congressional authority, demanded access to the facility as part of their oversight responsibilities. While federal agents permitted the three members of Congress to enter, Ras Baraka was denied entry. Witnesses say the situation escalated when Ras Baraka asserted his right to inspect the facility on behalf of Newark residents, leading to his arrest by federal agents.
Ras Baraka was held for approximately five hours and later released without bond. He is scheduled to appear in federal court on May 15. Speaking after his release, Ras Baraka described the arrest as “unwarranted and politically motivated,” stating that he acted lawfully and in the interest of his constituents. “It is my duty as mayor to advocate for transparency and accountability, especially when facilities like this operate in our community,” Ras Baraka said.
The arrest of Ras Baraka has sparked widespread public reaction, particularly among immigrant rights groups and civil liberties advocates, who claim it highlights a growing disconnect between local and federal authorities. Many are now calling for a full investigation into the incident and demanding greater local oversight of ICE facilities.
The GEO Group, which runs Delaney Hall, maintains that its operations are legal and regularly reviewed. However, Ras Baraka and other critics argue that the re-opening of the facility signals a federal shift back toward heavy reliance on private detention centers, despite strong local opposition.
Ras Baraka has long opposed the use of private immigration detention and has positioned himself as a vocal advocate for immigrant rights. His arrest comes at a pivotal moment in his gubernatorial campaign, where Ras Baraka has made immigration reform a core issue. Supporters of Ras Baraka say the arrest only strengthens his resolve to confront unjust systems.
As the legal proceedings move forward, Ras Baraka continues to receive backing from local leaders and community members. Many see Ras Baraka’s actions as a stand for justice, and believe this moment could galvanize broader political and social support.
The confrontation at Delaney Hall underscores the ongoing national tension over immigration enforcement, with Ras Baraka now at the center of that conversation. Whether in City Hall or on the campaign trail, Ras Baraka remains committed to challenging the systems he believes fail the most vulnerable — a stance that, according to Ras Baraka, defines his leadership.
