Context:

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested at Delaney Hall, an ICE detention facility, for trespassing while protesting its reopening. Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba stated that Baraka ignored warnings from Homeland Security personnel to leave the premises. Baraka, who is challenging the facility's reopening due to permit issues, has been vocal against the Trump administration's immigration policies. The facility, managed by GEO Group, was previously a halfway house, but is now set to become a 1,000-bed detention center under a $1 billion deal. Baraka, a gubernatorial candidate, has legally contested the facility's operations, emphasizing the lack of proper permits for its construction and opening.

Dive Deeper:

• Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested for trespassing at Delaney Hall, an ICE detention center, during a protest against its reopening. The protest was aimed at highlighting the facility's operation without proper permits.

• Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced on social media that Baraka ignored orders from Homeland Security personnel to vacate the premises, which led to his arrest.

• Baraka has been a vocal opponent of the Trump administration's immigration policies, and his protest at the facility aligns with his broader political stance against such measures.

• The Delaney Hall facility, previously a halfway house, is now a detention center as part of a $1 billion agreement between ICE and GEO Group, sparking controversy over its legitimacy and operational permits.

• Baraka is not only the mayor but also a Democratic candidate aiming to succeed New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, adding a political dimension to his protest actions.

• The ongoing dispute centers around the legality of the detention center's operation, with Baraka arguing that the lack of proper building permits invalidates its opening.

• In response to the February announcement of the ICE-GEO Group deal, Baraka has taken legal action against GEO Group, questioning the facility's compliance with local and state regulations.