Federal Prosecutor Files Charges
Federal authorities have filed charges against Congresswoman McIver following a confrontation at an ICE detention center in Newark. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba stated that McIver assaulted and obstructed officers while attempting to enter Delaney Hall with other officials.
McIver faces multiple felony counts. If convicted, she could face time in federal prison. Prosecutors claim her actions violated Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 111(a)(1), which prohibits interference with law enforcement.
McIver Responds with Denial
McIver denied the allegations. She said she and fellow lawmakers were conducting official oversight. She also claimed that ICE agents escalated the situation by arresting Newark Mayor Ras Baraka during the visit.
In a public statement, McIver called the charges political and misleading. She said the goal was to intimidate public officials and silence oversight. She pledged to fight the accusations in court.
Mayor Baraka Cleared, Stands by McIver
Federal prosecutors dropped the misdemeanor trespassing charge against Mayor Baraka. He had entered the facility grounds during the protest. Baraka said he felt targeted for speaking out about detainee treatment.
He voiced strong support for McIver. He called her a dedicated public servant and a personal friend. Baraka said he believes she will be cleared of all wrongdoing.
DHS and ICE Defend Enforcement Actions
Homeland Security officials defended the charges against Congresswoman McIver. Secretary Kristi Noem said no public official is above the law. She warned that assaulting law enforcement officers will always result in prosecution.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that all citizens, regardless of office, must follow security rules at federal facilities.
Protesters and Officials Dispute DHS Account
McIver and other lawmakers said ICE agents acted aggressively. She claimed officers shoved her and mistreated Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. The group maintains they had legal authority to conduct the oversight visit.
Delaney Hall Scrutiny Continues
Activists and city officials have questioned the facility’s compliance. Newark officials say Delaney Hall lacks a valid occupancy permit. However, GEO Group, which operates the facility, claims full legal compliance.
Legal Battle Ahead
The charges against Congresswoman McIver will now proceed through the federal court system. Supporters argue that the case targets oversight efforts. Opponents claim McIver broke the law during a security breach.
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