Charges Against New Jersey Rep. McQuiver Defended by U.S. Attorney

Alina Haba, the U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, is upholding felony charges against Representative Lamonica McQuiver related to an incident at the Newark Ice Detention Center. Haba emphasizes that this matter isn’t about politics or Congressional oversight; rather, it concerns the respect owed to those working to maintain public safety.

“This is not political; it’s about law enforcement. I’m here to enforce the laws, not create them,” Haba stated, indicating her commitment to law enforcement following McQuiver’s alleged assault on federal agents during the protest on May 9, 2025.

Haba highlighted that the charges reflect her office’s support for federal agents, who accused McQuiver of using physical force against them. She remarked, “This administration stands firmly behind law enforcement, and we will not waver. Our duty is clear. I endorse Congressional oversight fully, but any form of violence is unacceptable.”

According to the federal indictment, McQuiver is accused of striking a Homeland Security agent with her forearm and obstructing an ice agent during the protest. The two-count felony charge could lead to up to eight years in prison if she is convicted.

While McQuiver claims her actions were part of her Congressional duties, Haba rebutted this by stating that no one is exempt from the law when it comes to assaulting officers. McQuiver, who started representing New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District last September, has characterized the charges as politically motivated. She believes they distort her intent and undermine her role in protecting her constituents.

Furthermore, Haba revealed that a complaint was lodged only after efforts to resolve the situation amicably fell through. Investigators analyzed body camera footage, which has not been released yet, showing McQuiver engaged in “aggressive” behavior during the altercation.

Evidence gathered suggests that she attempted to interfere with officers taking action against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka during the demonstration. When Baraka was confronted by law enforcement, McQuiver reportedly yelled, “No hell! No hell! No hell!” as tensions escalated.

The complaint states, “McQuiver slammed her forearm against a uniformed HSI agent. She also attempted to restrain an officer by grabbing him.” Following Baraka’s arrest, McQuiver is alleged to have forcibly intervened, raising questions about her involvement.

Alongside Baraka, other Democrats, including Robert Menendez Jr. and Bonnie Watson Coleman, were present at the demonstration demanding the closure of the Delaney Hall detention center. Baraka was charged with trespassing but was later released, with his charges dropped this week.

A source indicated that McQuiver didn’t have grounds to escape the allegations, contrasting her situation with Baraka, who seemed to grasp the severity of the ongoing events.