Democratic Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has initiated legal proceedings against Interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, accusing her of "false arrest and malicious prosecution."
The lawsuit, which also names Ricky Patel, Special Agent in Charge of the Newark Division of Homeland Security, as a defendant, claims that Habba acted as a "political operative," according to the 17-page complaint.
As reported by Gateway Pundit, the lawsuit contends that Habba infringed upon Baraka's Constitutional rights, specifically citing violations of the Fourth, First, and Fifth Amendments. The legal action follows a contentious series of events, including Baraka's arrest for criminal trespass after entering the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility.
Although Habba's office initially pressed charges, they were dropped shortly thereafter, a move that drew criticism from a federal magistrate judge.
Last month, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba faced scrutiny from Judge Andre Espinosa, who had previously cautioned her against making public statements regarding Baraka. During a virtual hearing, Judge Espinosa criticized Habba, stating that the arrest and subsequent dismissal of charges against Baraka "suggests a worrisome misstep." He admonished the prosecutors, emphasizing the necessity for them to "operate with a higher standard."
The unfolding legal battle highlights ongoing tensions between federal authorities and local government officials, raising questions about the motivations behind the arrest and the swift dismissal of charges.
As the lawsuit progresses, it underscores the importance of upholding Constitutional rights and maintaining accountability within the justice system.
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