Newark, N.J. — Protests outside the Delaney Hall detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, intensified on Saturday, featuring a clash between groups with opposing views on immigration enforcement. The protests began over a week ago when detainees alleged mistreatment, including denial of medical care and inadequate food. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied these allegations, providing evidence of meal options available to detainees.
Following violent incidents earlier in the week, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill ordered state police to enhance security at the facility. By Saturday morning, the area was secured with barricades and fencing. State officials indicated that many of the protesters were from outside New Jersey, with five of the six individuals arrested being non-residents.
Approximately 200 anti-ICE demonstrators, many affiliated with far-left organizations, gathered at the site, chanting slogans against ICE. In contrast, supporters of ICE, including members of the Proud Boys, also attended, carrying pro-ICE flags and providing supplies to law enforcement.
Governor Sherrill stated that the presence of national extremist groups was contributing to the unrest and urged protesters to comply with law enforcement to ensure safety. She also called for an end to pressure on detainees regarding deportation documents and highlighted concerns about access for state health inspectors to the facility.