Congresswoman LaMonica McIver's Prosecution Over Detention Center Visit Continues

Thu Nov 13 2025 20:46:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A federal judge denies motions from Representative LaMonica McIver aimed to dismiss charges arising from her actions at an Immigration Detention Center, marking a significant clash in political arenas.

U.S. District Judge Jamel Semper has ruled against Representative LaMonica McIver's attempt to dismiss charges related to her May visit to Newark’s Delaney Hall immigration detention center. The congresswoman argues her actions were protected by legislative immunity, but the court found no evidence of vindictiveness in the prosecution. This case represents a confrontation between McIver, a Democrat, and the previous Trump administration’s Justice Department, amidst broader debates on immigration and oversight.

TRENTON, N.J. (Civitas.Global) — A federal judge has ruled against Republican motions to dismiss a prosecution against Democratic Representative LaMonica McIver. The charges stem from her visit to an immigration detention center in Newark earlier this year.

U.S. District Judge Jamel Semper expressed that McIver failed to demonstrate any vindictiveness from the prosecution, noting that her actions were not related to her constitutional duties as a member of Congress.

McIver argued for dismissal on the grounds of legislative immunity, stating her oversight role should shield her from charges arising from that visit. In the court's opinion, however, her actions appeared 'wholly disconnected' from legitimate legislative efforts.

This case intensifies the ongoing political scrutiny surrounding immigration policies, particularly those instituted under the Trump administration, against which McIver has been vocally critical. Despite the charges, McIver has maintained her innocence and is committed to continuing her work in Congress.

McIver was indicted in June, facing three counts of assaulting and impeding federal officials. If convicted, she could face up to eight years in prison. The claims include allegations that she physically interfered with agents during the visit, which involved the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka amid protests.

The confrontation reflects bigger discussions within Congress regarding oversight of federal immigration facilities. Notably, Congress approved a 2019 appropriations bill granting lawmakers unannounced access to these centers, complicating the legal landscape surrounding this case.

The case serves as a focal point of contention between Democrats advocating for humane immigration policies and actions perceived as punitive by federal authorities, further complicating the political landscape leading into upcoming elections.