The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced the arrest of a suspect linked to a violent incident at the Newark, New Jersey office of Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. The man allegedly carried a bat into the federal building, later returned unarmed, and caused damage within the office, authorities say. The arrest follows a federal warrant tied to weapon possession and destruction of government property.
Subhead 1: Event unfolds — entry attempt and vandalism
On the evening of November 12, the suspect reportedly attempted to enter the Peter W. Rodino Federal Building in Newark while wielding a baseball bat. Security blocked the entry. He later returned devoid of the bat and gained access to the U.S. Attorney’s office, where he proceeded to damage property before fleeing the scene.
As the building’s acting chief federal prosecutor, Habba leads all criminal prosecution and civil litigation efforts in New Jersey. While she was present during the incident, she emerged unharmed and reaffirmed her commitment to her duties.
Subhead 2: Arrest, charges and law enforcement response
A federal arrest warrant named 51-year-old Keith Michael Lisa as the suspect. He is accused of entering a federal building with a weapon and committing acts of “depredation of federal property.” Following coordinated efforts by the FBI, U.S. Marshals and Homeland Security Investigations, Lisa was placed into custody on Saturday.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the attack in a public post, stating “Any violence or threats of violence against any federal officer will not be tolerated.” Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey also voiced his concern over the incident, highlighting the importance of safeguarding federal officials and institutions.
Subhead 3: Broader implications and next steps
The event reflects growing concerns about threats to federal law-enforcement officials and government staff. Federal authorities are intensifying protection protocols while conducting full investigations into suspected politically or ideologically motivated acts of violence. Habba noted, “I will not be intimidated … for doing my job,” underscoring the resolve of the office to continue its work undeterred.
With the suspect in custody, the investigation now shifts to motive and whether the attack was targeted specifically at the U.S. Attorney’s office. The DOJ and FBI have pledged to follow the case to its conclusion.
