Newark, NJ — A Brooklyn man accused of setting a dumpster on fire during protests at Delaney Hall and attempting to ignite a second fire days later has been arrested, Newark officials announced as authorities continue cracking down on criminal activity tied to demonstrations at the detention facility.
Samuel Hoffman Becker, 30, was arrested Wednesday, June 3, at the intersection of Avenue P and Wilson Avenue, according to the Newark Department of Public Safety. Investigators identified Becker as the person responsible for a dumpster fire during a weekend protest at Delaney Hall and alleged he attempted to start another fire during protests Wednesday night.
Police Link Suspect to Multiple Fire Incidents
The arrest marks another enforcement action connected to recent demonstrations outside Delaney Hall, where protests have drawn supporters of detainees as well as heightened police attention.
According to Newark police, investigators identified Becker through their investigation into a dumpster fire that occurred during the weekend protest. Authorities also allege he attempted to start a second fire at the protest site on Wednesday.
Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr. said the city supports peaceful demonstrations but will aggressively pursue those accused of violence or property destruction.
Director Issues Warning to Protesters
“It should be crystal clear that individuals who come to Newark to destroy property and set fires under the guise of protesting will be swiftly identified and arrested,” Miranda said.
“While we welcome the peaceful assembly of those who come to our city to stand in solidarity with the detainees at Delaney Hall, we will not tolerate violent agitators who come here to seek attention at the expense of public safety.”
Miranda also delivered a direct warning to anyone considering similar actions at future demonstrations.
“This serves as a stern notice to those with any malicious intentions at the protest site. Stay home. Don’t come to Newark. You will be arrested if you come here to cause violence or property damage,” he said.
Key Points
• Samuel Hoffman Becker, 30, of Brooklyn, was arrested during a June 3 protest in Newark.
• Police say he set a dumpster fire during a weekend Delaney Hall protest and attempted another fire Wednesday.
• Becker faces charges including rioting/failure to disperse, disorderly conduct, and criminal mischief.
Charges Filed Following Investigation
Becker has been charged with rioting/failure to disperse, disorderly conduct, and criminal mischief.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the extent of any damage caused by the dumpster fire or whether anyone was injured.
The arrest comes amid increased scrutiny of demonstrations at Delaney Hall, where Newark officials have repeatedly emphasized that peaceful protest activity remains protected while criminal conduct will result in arrests.
Ongoing Focus on Public Safety
The city’s response reflects a broader effort to separate lawful demonstrations from acts authorities consider threats to public safety.
Recent protests at Delaney Hall have prompted several arrests, with Newark police citing incidents ranging from alleged assaults on officers to property damage and disorderly conduct.
Related coverage: Newark authorities earlier announced charges against two out-of-state protesters accused of assaulting police officers during demonstrations at Delaney Hall.
The case against Becker remains active. He is charged with rioting/failure to disperse, disorderly conduct, and criminal mischief in connection with the alleged fire-setting incidents, and all charges remain accusations unless proven in court.
