Judge dismisses Newark mayor's lawsuit against Trump ally Alina Habba

A federal court in New Jersey dismissed the lawsuit filed by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka against Alina Habba, a prominent Trump ally who served as interim United States Attorney for New Jersey. Baraka's suit, filed in 2025 after he was arrested while inspecting an ICE detention facility, alleged defamation, false light, malicious prosecution and false arrest, claiming Habba fabricated the incident to humiliate him. Judge Brian Martinotti, appointed by former President Barack Obama, concluded that the mayor could not meet the stringent standards for Bivens-type claims against a federal officer, noting the Supreme Court’s reluctance to expand such remedies.

The judge also held that Habba's remarks about Baraka's alleged disregard for the law were made in the scope of her official role, meaning any claim should be directed at the United States under the Federal Tort Claims Act. While the dismissal was without prejudice, allowing Baraka 21 days to file an amended complaint, the court expressed doubt that revised allegations would survive another motion to dismiss. A representative for Baraka’s office did not respond to requests for comment. Habba’s brief tenure as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor ended after the Third Circuit rejected her permanent appointment.