Newark, NJ — Two out-of-state protesters now face aggravated assault charges after authorities say a demonstration outside Delaney Hall escalated into a confrontation with Newark police officers, resulting in arrests and multiple criminal charges.
Thomas Alan Clemens, 30, of Oak Park, Illinois, and Aida Paige Riddle, 35, of Brooklyn, New York, were arrested during protests at Delaney Hall on Wednesday, June 3, according to the Newark Department of Public Safety. Both are accused of assaulting law enforcement officers during the unrest.
Police Say Protest Turned Violent
Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr. said the city supports the right to peaceful protest but drew a distinction between lawful demonstrations and conduct that allegedly endangered officers and the public.
“These two individuals came into Newark—not with the intention to support detainees at Delaney Hall—but to incite violence and act aggressively toward members of the Newark Police Division. Both are now charged with aggravated assault,” Miranda said.
Authorities allege the pair became involved in confrontations with police during the protest, prompting officers to take them into custody.
Multiple Charges Filed
Clemens and Riddle each face charges of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, obstruction, and rioting/failure to disperse.
Clemens was additionally charged with hindering apprehension.
Riddle faces an additional charge of escape.
The Newark Department of Public Safety did not immediately release further details about the specific actions that led to the charges.
Key Points
• Two out-of-state protesters were arrested during a June 3 demonstration at Delaney Hall in Newark.
• Both suspects face aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and rioting-related charges.
• Newark officials said the protest escalated into violence directed at police officers.
City Defends Response to Demonstration
Miranda praised Newark Police Division personnel for limiting the scope of the disturbances and preventing a larger confrontation.
“The goal of Newark Police is to safeguard the First Amendment rights of those who gather to protest issues they disagree with peacefully,” Miranda said. “However, when protestors become violent, striking officers, arrests have to be made to protect the Officers and the public at large.”
He added that commanders, supervisors, and officers successfully contained the situation, resulting in only a small number of arrests.
The incident highlights the balance law enforcement agencies often face during demonstrations—protecting constitutional rights while responding to alleged criminal activity when protests become disorderly.
Delaney Hall Protest Draws Attention
The demonstration outside Delaney Hall attracted protesters voicing concerns related to detainees housed at the facility. While most demonstrations in Newark proceed without significant incidents, police said Wednesday night’s event included confrontations that crossed into criminal conduct.
Authorities have not announced additional arrests related to the protest beyond those detailed in the department’s statement.
As the case moves through the court system, prosecutors will determine how to proceed on the charges filed against the two defendants.
Both Clemens and Riddle remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. The criminal case remains active, and Newark officials have not released additional information regarding court appearances or custody status.
