By: Richard L. Smith
A tense situation continued to take place at the Delaney Hall immigration detention center in Newark on Monday after protests outside the facility escalated following the reported transfer of a detainee who had helped organize a hunger and labor strike inside the center.
According to CBS News, hundreds of detainees at the privately operated ICE detention facility began a hunger and work strike last week, raising concerns about living conditions, access to medical care, and delays in immigration proceedings.
Family members, advocates, and community activists have maintained a presence outside the Doremus Avenue facility in support of the detainees.
The situation intensified Sunday when protesters attempted to block the transfer of Martin Soto, a detainee identified by advocates as one of the strike organizers.
Demonstrators reportedly surrounded a transport vehicle outside the facility, leading to a prolonged standoff with federal authorities. Federal officials said protesters blocked entrances and exits and interfered with operations, while activists alleged that enforcement actions included the use of force to disperse crowds.
On Monday, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill traveled to Delaney Hall seeking access to the facility after stating she was troubled by reports regarding conditions inside.
However, the governor said she was denied entry by federal authorities. The Department of Homeland Security characterized the visit as taking place during an active security situation outside the detention center.
The ongoing concerns have drawn the attention of several elected officials. Over the weekend, U.S. Senator Andy Kim and U.S. Representative Rob Menendez toured the facility and later voiced concerns about conditions reported by detainees.
Federal officials maintain that detainees receive meals, medical services, and other required care, while advocates and family members continue to dispute those claims and are calling for additional oversight and reforms.