Press Release: Scuffle Erupts During Congressional Oversight Visit at New Jersey ICE Facility
A visit to the Delaney Hall Detention Center by three New Jersey House Democrats, LaMonica McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rob Menendez, turned chaotic on Friday, leading to a confrontation with federal agents and potential legal repercussions. Accompanied by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka—who was arrested for trespassing—the group allegedly attempted to storm the facility, reportedly during the entry of a bus carrying detainees.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) authorities assert that an ICE officer was assaulted in the ensuing chaos, with video evidence purportedly showing McIver physically engaging with officers, including "body-slamming" a female agent. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that public officials are not exempt from legal accountability, stating, “If you assault a law enforcement officer, we will also make sure you answer to justice.”
Following the incident, McIver claimed in a social media post that ICE agents "manhandled" her and Watson Coleman. Despite these claims, video footage appears to show McIver forcefully pushing through law enforcement. DHS has noted that individuals detained at the facility include serious criminals such as murderers and gang members.
The altercation raised questions about the appropriateness of congressional oversight methods. Watson Coleman contended in a statement that their intent was to conduct legitimate oversight, rejecting allegations of "storming" the detention center. Mayor Baraka, detained for several hours, has emphasized his commitment to exercising First Amendment rights throughout the incident, with his legal team characterizing his arrest as unwarranted.
DHS continues to investigate the matter, with potential charges for the lawmakers still under consideration. The incident has sparked a larger debate over legislative accountability and immigration enforcement practices.
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