Federal authorities have taken a suspect into custody following a dramatic incident at the Newark office of acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, where substantial damage was inflicted after the assailant was initially denied entry. Pam Bondi, the U.S. Attorney General, publicly condemned the act and emphasised that attacks on law-enforcement officials will meet swift justice.
1. Incident Details: Bat, Return Visit and Vandalism
On a Wednesday evening, the suspect, identified as 51-year-old Keith Michael Lisa, reportedly approached the federal building in Newark, New Jersey, carrying a baseball bat. After being turned away by security, Lisa returned without the bat, was granted access, and proceeded to the Habba office where he allegedly shouted at staff and damaged furnishings. Habba was present but unharmed during the incident.
Law-enforcement agencies swiftly issued alerts, and a reward was posted as the manhunt commenced.
2. Arrest, Charges and Official Response
Mr. Lisa was arrested on Saturday following a multi-agency operation. He now faces federal charges including possession of a dangerous weapon in a federal facility and destruction of federal property. In a public post, Attorney General Bondi affirmed: “Any violence or threats against a U.S. Attorney will not be tolerated.” Habba responded in kind on social media, declaring she “will not be intimidated by radical actors” while carrying out her duties.
3. Broader Context: Rising Threats to Officials
This incident comes amid a broader pattern of violence targeting government and law-enforcement figures across the United States. Officials point to growing risks faced by public servants and emphasise the need for rigorous protection measures. The habba office attack serves as a stark reminder of the volatile environment confronting federal prosecutors.
