Sherrill Accuses ICE of Denying Access to Delaney Hall
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has raised concerns after ICE allegedly prevented her from visiting Delaney Hall, an immigrant detention center in Newark. The facility has been under scrutiny due to lawsuits, protests, and reports of unsafe conditions.
“ICE is denying entry to Delaney Hall, raising serious questions about what is happening behind its walls,” Sherrill noted in a message on X. It’s unclear whether she attempted to access the facility on Wednesday or if she was commenting on a continuing issue regarding access.
Previously, she had tried to visit the detention center during Memorial Day weekend but was also turned away, according to local sources.
In a recent meeting with families of detainees, Sherrill heard disturbing allegations about conditions at Delaney Hall. “Last night, I spoke with families whose loved ones are being held there, and what I learned only deepened my concerns,” she mentioned.
Families reported “unsafe, inhumane, and unconstitutional” conditions at the facility. Detainees have allegedly faced denial of medical care and threats regarding their communication privileges, along with pressure to sign deportation documents without proper translation.
Sherrill remains committed to pushing for accountability and improved conditions, while also expressing her support for eventually closing the facility.
This commentary coincides with an announcement from New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, revealing that the state has filed a lawsuit against GEO Group, the private company managing the detention center for the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuit seeks permission for the New Jersey Department of Health to tour the facility after officials were reportedly denied access. Allegations of hunger strikes among detainees due to the facility’s conditions have also surfaced.
The Department of Homeland Security has dismissed the lawsuit as “frivolous.” A spokesperson for DHS previously stated that detainees receive three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, and other necessities.
Sherrill has faced criticism from various local officials, activists, and law enforcement regarding her approach to protests outside Delaney Hall. Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka sharply disagreed with the tactics employed by the New Jersey State Police, labeling their presence as a “sword.” However, Sherrill defended the deployment, asserting it was essential to maintain public safety and prevent escalation.
For further comments, ICE directed inquiries to the Department of Homeland Security, which has yet to provide a response.
