Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested, Released After ICE Detention Protest

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on May 9, 2025, at the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility while attempting to accompany members of Congress inspecting the site. Baraka was charged with trespassing despite not entering the building, as congressional members were allowed inside while he was barred from entry. The arrest provoked public outcry, with Baraka asserting his actions were a democratic right and criticizing the facility’s lack of transparency and possible legal violations. U.S. Senator Cory Booker condemned the arrest and criticized the Trump administration’s decision to reopen the private prison, calling the situation disturbing and calling for Baraka's immediate release. The incident highlighted tensions over immigration enforcement, community safety, and oversight of private detention centers. Officials from Homeland Security and the U.S. Attorney's office maintained that Baraka knowingly ignored multiple warnings to leave, emphasizing that no one is above the law.