On Thursday, Newark’s mayor Ras Baraka announced a reduction in police presence outside the Delaney Hall immigration detention center. This decision follows a series of demonstrations that have become intense over the past two weeks. Delaney Hall is operated by the private prison company, the GEO Group, and Baraka emphasized that local taxpayer money would not be used to secure this privately-owned facility, especially when it poses unnecessary risks to officers.
Baraka acknowledged a significant decrease in unrest recently and stated that starting Friday, Newark police would focus on managing traffic and ensuring public safety. This includes protecting both protesters and motorists.
Uncertainty remains about whether federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the New Jersey State Police will boost their presence at Delaney Hall. Typically, state police assist local law enforcement upon request, meaning Newark must reach out for additional support. Sean Higgins, spokesman for Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey, highlighted the governor’s commitment to advocating for humane treatment of detainees and their families at Delaney Hall. He also encouraged protesters to remain peaceful.
ICE issued a strong statement indicating that the area around Delaney Hall is fully secured, and their operations continue uninterrupted. They warned that anyone disrupting law enforcement or obstructing operations would face prosecution.