The FBI, U.S. Marshals and Homeland Security investigators announced the arrest Saturday of Keith Michael Lisa, the man wanted in the violent confrontation at Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba’s Newark office — a welcome victory for law and order after a frightening escalation of threats against federal officials. Hardworking Americans should be relieved that federal agencies moved quickly and decisively to take this suspect off the streets and put public safety first.
According to the FBI, Lisa allegedly first showed up with a bat at the Peter W. Rodino Federal Building on Nov. 12, then returned after being denied entry and damaged property inside Habba’s office — conduct that crosses every line of civilized protest and must be punished. Federal prosecutors secured an arrest warrant charging him with possession of a dangerous weapon in a federal facility and depredation of federal property, signaling that the Justice Department is treating the attack with the seriousness it deserves.
Attorney General Pam Bondi publicly vowed that the individual “will be brought to justice,” and Habba herself made clear she will not be intimidated while doing her job — reminders that our republic depends on courage and accountability when radicals try to impose fear. This was not some petty grievance; it was an attack on the institutions that protect our communities, and officials from both the Department of Justice and local authorities stepped up to pursue the suspect.
Let there be no confusion: violence against federal prosecutors or law-enforcement personnel is a direct attack on the rule of law and on every American who wants a safe society to raise their families and run their businesses. The coordinated work of federal agencies in identifying and arresting the suspect should serve as a warning that the government will not bow to intimidation, even as too many in the media and on the left excuse or minimize the politically motivated rage they helped foment.
This incident also highlights the ugly politicization surrounding Habba, who has faced partisan resistance to her nomination and threats simply for doing her duty after serving as President Trump’s lawyer and adviser. Americans fed up with lawlessness should demand that those in power stop grandstanding and start protecting officials doing the hard work of enforcing the law, instead of turning violent rhetoric into headlines.
We stand with Alina Habba, her staff, and the brave agents who brought the suspect into custody — and we will keep calling for firm consequences against anyone who thinks vandalism and intimidation are acceptable political tools. Let this arrest be the start of a renewed commitment to public safety and a clear message: if you threaten our institutions, you will be held accountable.
