Clashes at Delaney Hall Spark Curfew and Arrests

Persistent protests at Delaney Hall, a federal immigration detention center in New Jersey, led to heightened tensions between demonstrators and state police over the weekend. For two consecutive nights, state police engaged with protestors, using tear gas to disperse chaotic crowds outside the facility.

The unrest began Saturday night when demonstrators pushed down police barricades, exceeding the designated peaceful protest zone established by state officials. Officers in riot gear intervened promptly to regain control.

Mayor’s Response and Curfew Enforcement

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka responded to the escalating situation by announcing a curfew in the vicinity surrounding Delaney Hall. In his statement, he stressed the urgency of protecting public safety given the incidents of violence and the discovery of weapons among arrested individuals.

“Due to the escalating situation at Delaney Hall and the increasing need for police intervention, immediate action is required to protect public safety,” said Mayor Baraka. “A mandatory curfew for a half-mile area surrounding Delaney Hall is being implemented, effective immediately.”

Access to Doremus Avenue and nearby areas is restricted from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., and violators face legal actions including warnings, summonses, or arrests.

Dual Protests and Clashes

Saturday morning saw the erection of new barriers around the ICE facility, coinciding with dueling rallies between ICE supporters and opponents. Critics of ICE raised concerns about conditions within Delaney Hall, while supporters emphasized the importance of law enforcement.

Diverse groups, including far-right factions like the Proud Boys, intensified the scene despite increased police presence successfully preventing major disruptions.

Democratic lawmakers joined the protests, highlighting the alleged lack of adequate food and medical care for detainees, claims rebuffed by the Department of Homeland Security.

First Night Incidents

Friday night’s confrontations included protesters equipped with gas masks and goggles clashing with New Jersey State Police. Protesters were notified to move to a designated protest zone. Failure to comply led to arrests for disorderly conduct and obstruction of justice.

The enforcement came after Governor Mikie Sherrill’s directive to establish a safe protest zone, aiming to maintain order while allowing vehicles access to Delaney Hall.

Governor’s Call for Peaceful Protests

Governor Sherrill urged protesters to adhere to peaceful practices and legal directives during the events. She emphasized the involvement of external groups in exacerbating the situation and reiterated the importance of peaceful advocacy for better conditions at Delaney Hall.

“We need to focus on advocating for better conditions for the detainees,” Governor Sherrill stated, encouraging lawful protests to continue in designated safe areas.

Hunger Strike Allegations

Protesters asserted conditions in Delaney Hall were leading detainees to hunger and labor strikes. Among them, Gabriela Soto reported her husband’s participation in a hunger strike due to mistreatment.

Contrarily, Homeland Security officials denied such allegations, ensuring detainees received adequate meals and medical care. Health inspections were conducted, though specific findings remain undisclosed.

Assault Charge During Protests

Amid the turmoil, a Morris County man faced charges for allegedly assaulting ICE officers while attempting to clear demonstrators. The accused was released under location monitoring but prohibited from proximity to Delaney Hall.

If convicted, he faces severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.