They gathered to protest for human rights. Feds say one man ended up biting their officers.

A 2

6-year-old New Jersey man faces federal assault charges after a clash outside a Newark immigration detention center left two agents bloodied.

When people gather to stand up for human rights, they expect a tense debate. No one expects the protest to end with officers bleeding from human bites.

WHAT HAPPENED

Federal officers say things went wrong on Thursday night outside the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark. A group of anti-ICE protesters blocked a road near the facility.

Officers told the crowd to move away. Instead of moving, prosecutors say the group clashed with the officers.

During the fight, 26-year-old Brendan John Geier allegedly kicked officers. Feds say he bit one officer on the arm and another on the knuckle. Both officers went to a local hospital for their wounds.

What the evidence shows

• One 26-year-old man, Brendan John Geier, faces federal assault charges.
• Two federal officers were treated at a hospital for bite wounds.
• The incident happened on Thursday night during protests that have lasted 2 weeks.
• Federal officials shared photos showing bloody wounds on the officers' arms.
• New Jersey State Police are now taking over security at the site.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

This clash shows a growing gap between federal authorities and local leaders. Federal officials say local police did not help them protect the facility. State leaders say they want to protect peaceful speech while keeping everyone safe.

How can we protect the right to protest when local and federal officials do not work together? When trust breaks down, regular officers and citizens are the ones who get hurt.

THE OTHER SIDE

Geier has not yet detailed his defense in court, but protest groups say federal agents often use force to break up peaceful crowds. They argue that tense standoffs can quickly turn into chaotic struggles.

Based on the photos of the bite wounds, the defense faces a tough battle in court.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has ordered the State Police to take over safety outside Delaney Hall. This means state troopers will now stand between the protesters and the federal agents.

For regular people, this means more security and tension in Newark. The protests are entering their second week, and counter-protesters are now arriving at the scene.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

What sparked the physical struggle before the alleged biting occurred?

• Why did local police stay away from the protest during the first week?
• How will the arrival of state troopers change the way officers handle the crowds?