Protests Erupt Outside New Jersey Detention Facility Amid Criticism Over Conditions

Anti-ICE demonstrators and authorities clashed outside a New Jersey detention facility on Monday, with allegations that illegal immigrants are held in poor conditions. The protest occurred at the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, where activists formed a human chain.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill attempted to enter the detention facility but was denied access. She expressed concerns, stating that the refusal raises questions about transparency. According to Patch, Sherrill has long been against private detention centers and advocates for closing Delaney Hall. She opposes the expansion of mass detention facilities in the state, including a proposed facility in Roxbury.

Security Measures Intensify

Reports indicated heightened security at the facility, operated by GEO Group for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Demonstrators reportedly hurled water and made loud protests against ICE agents. Some were detained as tensions escalated with calls to relocate from the road to a grassy area.

No more ICE!

protesters chanted, with others demanding,

Free them all!

The situation eventually calmed as agents and protesters faced off.

Meanwhile, detainees inside Delaney Hall initiated a hunger strike, citing inadequate conditions and lack of medical care. A letter from nearly 300 residents highlighted the poor quality of food and perceived neglect.

Initially, we ask for forgiveness for the way we entered the United States, but given the circumstances we were living in our countries, which placed our lives and those of some members of our families in danger, the letter stated. It described feelings of being kidnapped and tortured due to inadequate food resources in detention.

According to a DHS spokesperson, detainees receive meals, water, clothing, and toiletries. They have phone access to contact family and lawyers. The spokesperson emphasized that ICE’s detention standards surpass those found in U.S. prisons holding citizens.

Family members have maintained a vigil outside the facility since Friday. Governor Sherrill and U.S. Senator Andy Kim joined protesters, with Democrats urging the closure of the facility amid allegations of poor treatment.

In February 2025, a DHS official described the facility as housing dangerous individuals, including murderers and gang members. Calls for its closure came from several elected officials, including Sen. Andy Kim and Reps. Rob Menendez Jr., Nellie Pou, LaMonica McIver, Analilia Mejia, and Frank Pallone Jr.