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New Jersey Representative LaMonica McIver has pleaded not guilty to charges related to an incident at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Newark. The Democratic congresswoman faces a three-count indictment for allegedly assaulting federal officers during a visit to Delaney Hall on May 9.
McIver and several other members of Congress were at the facility for oversight purposes when tensions rose. Prosecutors allege that McIver interfered with law enforcement by slamming her forearm into one officer and forcibly grabbing another. Her office has described the charges as politically motivated and baseless.
McIver's spokeswoman, Hanna Rumsey, stated, "Rep. McIver has confidently entered her official plea: not guilty. She is crystal clear that she will not back down as leaders across this country are targeted for speaking up." The congresswoman herself has argued that the case is a political attempt to intimidate her and others who challenge ICE policies.
The incident also involved Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who was ordered to leave a secured area and later arrested for trespassing. However, the charge against Baraka was dropped by interim New Jersey U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.
If convicted, McIver could face a maximum penalty ranging from one to eight years. Despite the legal proceedings, McIver remains steadfast in her role, vowing not to be intimidated. Supporters gathered outside the Newark federal court, with some calling for the closure of Delaney Hall.