New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has directed state police to take control of security operations outside Delaney Hall, an immigration detention center in Newark, following several days of demonstrations and confrontations involving protesters and federal immigration authorities.
The decision comes amid rising tensions outside the 1,000-bed facility, which is operated by Geo Group under contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). State officials said the move is intended to maintain public safety while protecting the right of residents to peacefully assemble.
According to state authorities, designated protest areas have been established near the detention center, allowing both supporters and opponents of ICE policies to gather separately. Traffic control measures and vehicle checkpoints have also been introduced to improve safety around the site.
Federal officials welcomed the increased involvement of New Jersey State Police. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin described the development as a positive step toward restoring order and improving coordination between state and federal law enforcement agencies.
Demonstrations outside Delaney Hall began after reports emerged that some detainees had launched a labor and hunger strike, alleging poor living conditions within the facility. Detainees and their supporters have raised concerns about food quality, sanitation, ventilation, and the spread of illness inside the center.
Federal authorities have disputed those claims, maintaining that detainees receive adequate food, healthcare, and living accommodations. President Donald Trump also defended the facility during a recent White House meeting, stating that it is being operated effectively.
The protests have occasionally led to clashes between demonstrators and ICE personnel. Authorities reported several arrests during the week, while New Jersey Senator Andy Kim was reportedly affected by pepper spray during one of the incidents.
Governor Sherrill, who has publicly opposed the operation of Delaney Hall and called for its closure, recently attempted to visit the facility but was denied entry by federal officials. She has emphasized the importance of treating detainees with dignity and ensuring transparency regarding conditions inside the center.
Meanwhile, officials from the New Jersey Department of Health conducted a limited inspection of the facility’s food service operations. Findings from that visit had not yet been released as of Friday.
The situation continues to draw national attention as debates over immigration enforcement, detention conditions, and protest rights remain at the forefront of public discussion.