Violent protests outside a New Jersey immigration facility have prompted officials to withdraw Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents as clashes escalated. Demonstrators hurled rocks and fought with federal agents outside Delaney Hall, a private detention center in Newark.
Protests Turn Violent
Anti-ICE groups targeted the facility following reports that up to 300 detainees have gone on hunger strike to protest alleged mistreatment and poor conditions. The melees resulted in several ICE agents being injured, including three officers who were bitten by a protester on Thursday night. A cinder block was also thrown at an ICE patrol car, shattering its windshield.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated on Friday that the protester had been arrested and charged, vowing to crack down on hostile demonstrations. 'The Trump Administration will ALWAYS stand with our federal law enforcement officers,' Mullin wrote on X, alongside images of the officers' injuries. 'Anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.'
Governor's Response
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced on Friday the establishment of designated protest zones and checkpoints outside the facility, stating that officials 'need to take this opportunity to lower the temperature.' She added, 'It has grown unsafe, and that’s completely unacceptable.' Following Sherrill's order, federal agents agreed to withdraw from the parking lot of Delaney Hall, allowing state officials to oversee the demonstrations.
The protests are scheduled to continue Saturday, with officials maintaining a presence to keep agitators under control. Sherrill said her administration 'will be working together with community members, faith leaders, advocates and state police' to ensure safety within the protest zones.
Continued Violence and Arrests
Despite Sherrill's efforts to establish 'peaceful and protected' protest zones, footage from Friday night showed continued clashes leading to violence and arrests. Social media videos captured officers using smoke grenades and pepper spray to disperse demonstrators, as horse-riding officers attempted to hold a perimeter. Reports indicate several arrests were made, though the exact number has not been released.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche also announced the arrest of a protester who threatened the lives of ICE agents and their families. Blanche shared footage of the individual screaming threats and stated on X: 'Told you. (The FBI) just arrested the man who threatened to kill ICE officers and their families. FAFO.'
Hunger Strike Allegations
The protests stem from reports that up to 300 detainees have been on hunger strike over the past week, alleging mistreatment, abuse, maggot-infested food, and poor medical care. Detainees also claim they have been denied contact with families and that their immigration cases have been ignored. Officials at the center deny these allegations.
Governor Sherrill expressed support for the protesters' cause but emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions. 'I am going to protect people’s right to protest peacefully and I’m going to ensure everyone’s safety,' she said. Sherrill also stated her priority is to remove federal immigration agents from state immigration processes, arguing that ICE presence has made the situation less safe.
Political Reactions
Earlier in the week, Democratic U.S. Senator Andy Kim was tear-gassed while attempting to enter the facility. He called for the facility to be shut down 'immediately.' A Department of Homeland Security spokesman defended the conditions at Delaney Hall, stating that detainees receive three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, toiletries, and comprehensive medical care. The spokesman described the conditions as better than most American prisons.
