Nationwide — Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested this past Friday during a protest outside the newly opened Delaney Hall ICE detention center operated by The Geo Group in Newark, New Jersey. Baraka, who is running for governor to succeed Phil Murphy, was taken into custody by federal authorities after reportedly attempting to enter the facility alongside three congressional representatives. He was held for several hours before being released later that evening. Baraka, speaking to supporters after his release, maintained that he had done nothing wrong and emphasized his commitment to fighting division and supporting immigrant communities.
According to CNN, tensions escalated after Baraka tried to join Reps. Robert Menendez, LaMonica McIver, and Bonnie Watson Coleman in entering the detention center without an appointment. According to witnesses, a heated argument broke out with Homeland Security officials, which led to Baraka being handcuffed and placed in an unmarked vehicle, even after he had returned to the public side of the gate. His wife, Linda Baraka, condemned the arrest, claiming it was politically motivated and that he was deliberately targeted as the only protester detained.
Alina Habba, interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, said Baraka trespassed and ignored official warnings. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a statement accusing Baraka and members of Congress of “storming” the gate, though video footage and eyewitnesses indicated Baraka had exited the secure area before his arrest. Rep. Watson Coleman refuted DHS’s claims, saying the visit was a lawful oversight inspection, not an unauthorized break-in, and that federal officials exaggerated the incident.
Footage obtained by the Associated Press showed a Homeland Security official denying Baraka entry on the grounds that he was not a member of Congress. After leaving the restricted area, Baraka was seen speaking to someone through the fence moments before ICE agents re-entered the public area and arrested him. Activists and bystanders described the move as aggressive and unjustified, with some protesters shouting “Shame!” as agents pulled Baraka through the gate in handcuffs.
The arrest sparked outrage among civil rights advocates, government officials, and immigration activists. New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin criticized the federal response and noted that no local or state police were involved. Rep. Menendez emphasized Congress’s legal authority to inspect federal facilities without notice and accused ICE of intimidation and obstruction. Baraka’s campaign said they are closely monitoring the situation and will release more information soon.
Delaney Hall, the facility at the center of the controversy, was formerly a halfway house and is now part of a $1 billion, 15-year ICE contract awarded to The Geo Group. The facility, which began operations on May 1, is part of a broader expansion under former President Donald Trump to increase detention capacity across the country. Geo’s CEO revealed the site is expected to generate $60 million