Members of the House minority denounce the charges as an abuse of power.
The Department of Justice indicted Representative LaMonica McIver of New Jersey on Monday evening for assaulting and impeding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers during a group visit to Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark.
“Representative LaMonica McIver assaulted, impeded, and interfered with law enforcement in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a)(1),” U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Alina Habba stated. “That conduct cannot be overlooked by the chief federal law enforcement official in the State of New Jersey, and it is my Constitutional obligation to ensure that our federal law enforcement is protected when executing their duties.”
Members of the House minority claimed that President Trump’s administration was attempting to “intimidate Congress” and abusing its power. However, despite claims that the congresswoman was pushed by ICE officers, body camera footage showed Representative McIver shoving an officer.
“I have persistently made efforts to address these issues without bringing criminal charges and have given Representative Mclver every opportunity to come to a resolution, but she has unfortunately declined,” U.S. Attorney Habba continued. “No one is above the law — politicians or otherwise. It is the job of this office to uphold justice impartially, regardless of who you are. Now we will let the justice system work.”
The group that stormed the facility gate claimed to be conducting an oversight visit. ICE officials have said that congressional legislators are welcome to tour the facility, but they need to make an appointment.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated the arrest crossed a “red line.“
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For members of the House to respect the separation of powers and uphold the rule of law.
- For DHS and ICE officials as they seek to enforce federal immigration laws.
Sources: USA Today, Townhall, PJ Media
