NEWARK, N.J. — U.S. District Judge Jamel Semper ordered the removal of social media posts that he deemed prejudicial to U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver, who is currently facing charges stemming from an incident outside a New Jersey immigration detention center. The judge's decision came during a pretrial hearing related to the actions of McIver, a representative from Newark, who has been accused of impeding immigration officials during a May visit to the Delaney Hall Detention Facility.
In his ruling, Judge Semper pointed out that the posts from the Department of Homeland Security undermine McIver's standing in the case, labeling them as a “reckless stunt by sanctuary politicians.” He called for the removal of nine specific posts that could prejudice the jury pool.
McIver’s attorneys argued that the posts might compromise her ability to receive a fair trial. During the temporary refusal of the government to turn over evidence, the judge instructed them to provide additional video footage related to the incident.
Amidst the controversy, there is an ongoing legal discussion about Congress' right to oversee federal immigration facilities. The case has drawn attention to the broader implications regarding legislative oversight and the rights of lawmakers during such visits.
McIver has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include three counts of assaulting and obstructing federal agents, with potential maximum sentences of eight years for two counts. The congresswoman continues to assert that her actions were within her congressional authority to conduct federal oversight and maintain public accountability regarding immigration practices.
