Additional Coverage:
- Newark Mayor Says ICE Detained U.S. Citizens During Workplace Raid—Democratic Lawmakers Criticize Agency’s ‘Fear Tactics’ (newsbreak.com)
Newark, NJ – Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted a workplace raid in Newark on Thursday, sparking criticism from Mayor Ras Baraka. Several people were detained, including U.S. citizens, according to the mayor.
Mayor Baraka released a statement claiming ICE agents raided a local business without a warrant. He stated both undocumented residents and U.S. citizens were detained, including a military veteran whose identification was questioned.
ICE confirmed the operation, stating it was a targeted enforcement action at a Newark worksite. The agency acknowledged that U.S. citizens might be encountered during such operations and that identification may be requested. In a separate update, ICE reported 538 arrests and 373 detainees on Thursday, but did not specify how many were from the Newark raid.
New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim expressed deep concern and are seeking answers from the Department of Homeland Security. Rep. LaMonica McIver also condemned the raid.
Newark is considered a sanctuary city, where local laws limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Earlier this week, a Trump administration official criticized sanctuary cities and warned of increased collateral arrests.
Mayor Baraka pledged that Newark would not stand by while people are “unlawfully terrorized” and plans to hold a press conference with partners to defend human and civil rights.
The raid follows several executive orders signed by President Trump targeting immigrants, and the cancellation of a policy that prevented ICE arrests in sensitive locations like schools and hospitals. This action signals a potential shift from the Biden administration’s avoidance of workplace raids.