Context:

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is actively opposing the conversion of a vacant prison into an ICE detention center by GEO Group, citing safety violations and unauthorized renovations. He argues that GEO Group has unlawfully barred city inspectors from accessing the facility, which allegedly includes unsanitary conditions and inadequate emergency exits. The controversy has sparked a legal battle, with Baraka asserting the issue transcends political lines, focusing on human rights and constitutional law. GEO Group defends its actions, stating they are following federal law and using a valid certificate of occupancy. Meanwhile, Baraka is criticized for politicizing the issue as he runs for governor, while maintaining that the matter is about safeguarding public safety and legal due process.

Dive Deeper:

• Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, alongside activists, is challenging ICE activities at Delaney Hall, where a vacant prison is being turned into an immigrant detention center. He claims GEO Group, the facility's owner, is preventing necessary safety inspections.

• A lawsuit filed by the City of Newark accuses GEO Group of violating city construction codes by conducting unapproved electrical and plumbing renovations. The company allegedly denied entry to safety inspectors, prompting concerns about unsanitary conditions and lack of emergency exits.

• Baraka argues that GEO Group's actions mirror a broader pattern of law circumvention, comparing it to federal practices. He emphasizes the potential risks to detainees, first responders, and facility workers due to the identified safety violations.

• Despite facing accusations of politicizing the situation, Baraka insists his stance is driven by concerns over human rights and legal due process, not partisan politics. He argues that denying access to inspectors violates city and constitutional laws.

• GEO Group maintains its compliance with federal mandates, citing an old certificate of occupancy as valid. The company argues that political motivations are fueling opposition and stresses that the facility functioned without issue during the Obama administration.

• Baraka, aiming for the governor's office, denies that his actions are politically motivated, asserting that the focus should remain on public safety and legal integrity. The legal battle continues as both sides present their arguments.

• Critics of Baraka claim that his efforts to block the detention center's opening are politically driven, despite his assertion that the matter transcends party lines, centering on constitutional rights and community safety.