Allen Devlin, a new addition to the CBS News New York team since September 2024, is thrilled to be back in the hustle and bustle of New York City. With his passion for storytelling and journalism, he is ready to dive into the heart of the city’s news scene and bring the latest updates to the viewers. Updated on: May 15, 2025 / 6:23 PM EDT / CBS New York
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka found himself in federal court for a status conference after his recent run-in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The mayor was charged with trespassing and is now facing a trial set to begin in mid-July. As the legal battle unfolds, Baraka remains determined to fight the charges against him, with a group of supporters rallying outside the courthouse in solidarity.
During the 30-minute procedural hearing, both sides stood their ground, setting the stage for a contentious trial ahead. The mayor’s vocal supporters made their presence known, with chants of “Shame! Shame! Shame!” echoing through the air as federal prosecutors entered the building. Despite the challenges ahead, Baraka remains resilient in his quest for justice, calling for the dismissal of the charges against him.
After the hearing, Baraka stood before his supporters, expressing his belief that he was unfairly targeted in the incident. He emphasized the unjust nature of his arrest, stating, “This is wrong, it is unjust, it is undemocratic, it is unpatriotic, it is un-American.” As a Democratic candidate for governor of New Jersey, Baraka faces not only legal hurdles but also the political implications of his actions.
The mayor’s troubles began when ICE agents apprehended him on trespassing charges outside Delaney Hall, a newly opened detention center. Baraka and other advocates raised concerns about the facility’s permits and inspection processes, allegations that the Department of Homeland Security refutes. Despite the unfolding legal drama, Baraka maintains that his intentions were not to incite unrest but to support fellow lawmakers during a visit to the facility.
In the aftermath of his arrest, body cam footage released by the Department of Homeland Security captured the moments leading up to Baraka’s detainment. The conflicting narratives between the mayor and federal authorities continue to fuel the debate surrounding the incident. While facing a potential 30-day prison sentence for trespassing, Baraka stands firm in his defense, denying any wrongdoing and asserting his right to enter the premises.
As the legal battle intensifies and the political stakes rise, Mayor Ras Baraka finds himself at the center of a storm of controversy. With supporters by his side and opponents seeking his downfall, the coming months will test not only his resolve but also the resilience of his political career. In a city where every move is scrutinized, Baraka’s journey from the courthouse to the campaign trail is far from over.
