Rep. Lamonica McIver (D-NJ) faces federal charges related to allegedly obstructing a Homeland Security agent during an incident on May 9, outside the Newark immigration detention center. Her legal team has called for her political recall amid these accusations.
The U.S. Attorney, Alina Haba, shared details about a three-count indictment alleging that McIver intervened to prevent the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka at Delaney Hall.
According to a DOJ press release, McIver, along with two other members of Congress, had been participating in legislative visits coinciding with immigration protests. Federal agents had warned Baraka to leave after he entered a secure area of the detention facility.
As events unfolded, McIver allegedly obstructed law enforcement by placing her arm around Baraka and reportedly pushing against an officer trying to make the arrest.
If convicted, McIver could face up to eight years in prison for each of the first two counts, while the third count carries a maximum of one year.
Mayor Baraka has taken legal action himself, suing interim U.S. attorneys for alleged false arrests and malicious prosecution.
In response to the situation, Haba stated, “People are free to express their opinions, but they should not do so in a way that puts law enforcement at risk.”
McIver’s lawyer, Paul Fishman, characterized the charges as politically motivated, arguing that this is retaliation against public servants. He expressed confidence that they would be cleared of any wrongdoing.
The preliminary hearing set for Tuesday has been canceled, and further arrests are anticipated within the next two weeks.
