In a politically charged case, Democratic Congresswoman LaMonica McIver from New Jersey has been formally charged by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for allegedly assaulting federal officers during a heated protest outside an ICE detention centre.
The incident, which occurred earlier in May, has sparked a major political debate over immigration policy, legislative rights, and federal law enforcement.
What Led to the Charges?
The clash happened on May 9 during a visit to an ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, by three Democratic lawmakers — McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Robert Menendez Jr.. The lawmakers were inspecting the centre, claiming it lacked proper permits and didn’t meet legal standards.
After the inspection, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka attempted to enter the facility to join the lawmakers. He followed orders to leave the area but was arrested after stepping outside the fenced property. A crowd of protesters and lawmakers, including McIver, gathered around as agents arrested Baraka.
What Are the Accusations?
Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba said McIver assaulted, interfered with, and impeded federal law enforcement. Video from the incident reportedly shows McIver using her body and arms to push past officers in an attempt to reach Mayor Baraka, who was being taken away in handcuffs.
Habba said, “No one is above the law — politicians or otherwise,” emphasizing the DOJ’s stand that legal accountability should apply to everyone.
However, Mayor Baraka will not face further legal action. The DOJ dropped the trespassing charge against him, saying it was time to “move forward.” Baraka expressed relief and said he looked forward to future cooperation with the DOJ.
McIver Denies the Allegations
McIver strongly denied the charges, calling them “purely political” and an attempt to criminalize congressional oversight. She said there’s no video showing any assault and argued that her role as a lawmaker gives her the right to inspect government-run facilities.
Her lawyer, Paul Fishman, also said the charges are being used to shift blame away from immigration officers, who he believes escalated the situation.
Political Reactions
House Democratic leaders quickly came to McIver’s defense. They called the prosecution “extreme, morally bankrupt,” and accused the Trump-led DOJ of using the legal system to intimidate lawmakers and block oversight efforts.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said this case shows how the administration is abusing its power and warned that those responsible for this “illegitimate action” will be held accountable.
Ongoing Investigations
It’s still unclear whether charges will be filed against the other two lawmakers, Watson Coleman and Menendez Jr., who were also present during the incident. McIver had been in talks with the DOJ to reach a plea deal, but she declined the offer.
Meanwhile, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused the lawmakers of showing “lawlessness” during the protest, which she said was “beneath the dignity” of elected officials.