U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver has been charged in a three-count indictment for forcibly impeding and interfering with federal officers, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.
The indictment alleges that on May 9, 2025, McIver interfered with federal officers during an attempted arrest outside the Delaney Hall Federal Immigration Facility in Newark, New Jersey. The incident occurred while McIver and two other members of Congress were conducting a congressional oversight inspection at the facility, which coincided with an immigration protest rally.
During the inspection, the Mayor of Newark arrived and was granted access to a secured area. A federal officer informed the Mayor that he was not authorized to be there and warned him about potential arrest if he did not leave. McIver and other congressional members challenged this decision. When officers attempted to arrest the Mayor, McIver and others intervened by surrounding him.
After escorting the Mayor outside, law enforcement made another attempt to arrest him. During this time, someone in the crowd reportedly shouted “circle the mayor.” McIver then faced the Mayor and placed her arms around him to prevent his arrest by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). She allegedly struck one officer with her forearm and tried to restrain another officer.
If convicted on Count One or Two of forcible impeding and interfering charges, McIver could face up to eight years in prison for each count. Count Three carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents from Homeland Security Investigations for their role in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark McCarren is representing the government in this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
Defense counsel for McIver includes Paul Fishman, Esq., and Lee Cortes, Esq.
