Newark, NJ - Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is suing Alina Habba, a prominent attorney who has represented former President Donald Trump, alleging malicious prosecution. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, centers on charges that were brought against Baraka and subsequently dropped shortly after his arrest near an immigration detention center.
According to the lawsuit, Baraka claims that Habba, who at the time served as interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, pursued the charges against him without sufficient evidence and with malicious intent. The mayor alleges that the prosecution was politically motivated and designed to harm his reputation and career.
The dropped charges stemmed from an incident near an immigration jail where Baraka was participating in a protest. While the details of the initial arrest remain contested, Baraka maintains that he was peacefully demonstrating and was wrongly targeted. He is seeking damages for the harm caused to his reputation and emotional distress.
Habba has not yet issued a formal response to the lawsuit. The case is expected to draw significant attention given Habba's high-profile association with Trump and the political implications of the allegations. The lawsuit underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and the role of political figures in public protests.
Newark Mayor Baraka Sues Trump Lawyer Alina Habba for Malicious Prosecution
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has filed a lawsuit against Alina Habba, a lawyer known for her work with former President Trump. The lawsuit alleges malicious prosecution stemming from charges that were later dropped. The charges were initially filed following Baraka's arrest near an immigration detention facility. Baraka claims Habba's actions were politically motivated and caused significant damage to his reputation.