New Jersey Congresswoman LaMonica McIver is firing back after being hit with serious federal charges for allegedly assaulting, impeding, and interfering with law enforcement during a visit to Delaney Hall detention facility earlier this month.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey announced the charges on May 19, citing Title 18, U.S. Code Section 111(a)(1), typically applied to cases where physical force or threats are made against federal officers. But McIver isn’t staying silent—she’s calling the case a political hit job.
In a public statement, McIver explained that her visit to Delaney Hall was part of her lawful congressional duties, aimed at inspecting conditions for ICE detainees. She says the visit was peaceful until ICE agents abruptly arrested Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, sparking what she describes as an unnecessary confrontation.
“This administration will never stop me from working for the people in our district and standing up for what is right,” she said, calling the charges a “mischaracterization” of her actions. McIver insists the incident is being blown out of proportion in an attempt to criminalize congressional oversight.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba painted a much different picture, accusing McIver of obstructing law enforcement and refusing multiple chances to resolve the matter without charges. In the same statement, Habba revealed that charges against Mayor Baraka for trespassing were dropped “for the sake of moving forward,” and even extended an invitation for the mayor to tour Delaney Hall again—with her.
Habba made it clear that while she supports congressional oversight, no one is above the law. “It is the job of this office to uphold justice impartially, regardless of who you are,” her statement read.
The case now heads to court, with both sides standing firm. McIver says she’s ready to clear her name and let the facts speak for themselves. Meanwhile, the legal and political implications of this showdown are only beginning to unfold.
