FBI arrests protester who threatened to kill ICE officer's family at NJ detention center protest, Blanche says
NEWARK, N.J. — Federal authorities have taken into custody a man accused of making graphic death threats against an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer and his family during a volatile confrontation outside a New Jersey detention center.
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the arrest Friday evening, just hours after promising on national television that the individual responsible would be apprehended. The suspect, whose name has not yet been released, was captured on video issuing the threats during a protest Thursday night outside Delaney Hall ICE facility in Newark.
"That's a federal crime," Blanche said during a Thursday appearance on Fox News' "The Will Cain Show." "Not only threatening the ICE officer — but think about how disgusting this individual is by threatening his wife and his children with death."
In the widely circulated video, the demonstrator can be heard shouting explicit threats against the officer's entire family, including his children and spouse. The officer was described as simply standing at his post when the confrontation occurred.
The arrest comes amid escalating tensions at the detention center, where demonstrations have continued for six consecutive nights. Thursday's clashes resulted in nine arrests as protesters—some armed with gas masks and black umbrellas—clashed with federal agents. Officers deployed pepper spray to disperse the crowd of approximately 100 demonstrators who had gathered near the facility.
The unrest has its roots in conditions inside the center. On May 22, detainees at Delaney Hall sent an open letter alleging they were being denied adequate medical care, receiving insufficient food, and held without due process. The Department of Homeland Security has rejected those claims.
Prior to Thursday's violent confrontation, six protesters were arrested Wednesday night for allegedly assaulting law enforcement officers. DHS officials reported that local police declined to assist federal agents during the disturbances, with Acting Director of the Office of Partnership and Engagement Chad Mullin citing political interference.
"Your whole f---ing family is dead," the threatening protester said in the video that circulated widely on social media. "Your children and wife all dead. I have your face."
Blanche celebrated the arrest on social media Friday evening, writing: "Told you. FBI just arrested the man who threatened to kill ICE officers and their families. FAFO."
The detained individual faces federal charges related to the threats. Authorities have not yet identified the suspect publicly, and additional details about the arrest were not immediately available.
