Guards at the Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark, New Jersey, are accused of retaliating against detainees following nonviolent protests regarding poor conditions, including hunger and labor strikes. According to relatives and members of Congress, staff at the facility used pepper spray and batons against detainees, transferred protest leaders, and restricted family visitation.
A detainee's relative reported that negotiations were expected but instead, guards attacked the detainees. New Jersey and New York Congress members visited the facility and expressed concern over the conditions, noting the absence of medical staff and reports of inadequate treatment.
GEO Group, which operates the facility, confirmed the use of chemical agents during a physical altercation but did not address the allegations of retaliation. The protests began as detainees demanded the release of vulnerable individuals and have continued despite claims from the Department of Homeland Security that no hunger strike is occurring. Activists and family members have been denied visitation rights, prompting ongoing demonstrations outside the facility.
Congress members have called for the closure of Delaney Hall, citing worsening conditions and lack of due process for detainees. GEO Group has denied the allegations, suggesting they are part of a politically motivated campaign against ICE and federal immigration detention.
