Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Denies Trespassing Charges After ICE Facility Arrest

Mayor Baraka's Arrest and ICE Facility Visit

• 🚨 Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested for trespassing during a visit to an ICE facility in New Jersey, a charge he vehemently denies.
• 🗣️ He stated that he was initially invited into the facility and later allowed to leave, only to be arrested on the sidewalk.
• 🤥 Baraka accused the US Attorney for New Jersey, Lena Haba, of telling complete and total lies regarding the events at the facility.

Disputing ICE's Narrative

• 🚫 Baraka refuted claims of detainees being present, protesters storming the facility, or members of Congress body-slamming ICE officers.
• 📹 He challenged the release of any video evidence supporting these accusations, suggesting any falling seen would be an ICE officer tackling an observer.
• 🙏 He acknowledged that Homeland Security officers treated him with respect and dignity while he was in custody.

Certificate of Occupancy Dispute

• 🏛️ The core of the dispute, according to Baraka, is the ICE facility's refusal to comply with local laws, specifically regarding certificates of occupancy.
• 📜 He stated the facility has an outdated certificate and refuses annual updates and inspections, prompting legal action.
• ⚖️ Baraka emphasized that the resolution of the occupancy issue lies with the courts, not with ICE or the Department of Homeland Security.

Political Motivation and Public Service

• 🏃 Baraka addressed suggestions that his actions are politically motivated, particularly with a gubernatorial primary approaching.
• ✊ He asserted that his fight is consistent with his character and has always been about the residents of his community and upholding the rule of law.
• 🚶 He described his routine of visiting the facility with fire inspectors to document denied entry, creating a pattern for court proceedings.