Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark faced chaos as detainees rioted over meal delays, causing escapes and heightening public safety concerns.
At a Glance
- Riot erupted at Newark ICE facility over delayed meals.
- Escapes and significant property damage occurred during the riot.
- Leftist protesters blocked federal agents attempting to restore order.
- Manhunt for escaped detainees is ongoing.
Riot Erupts at Newark Detention Facility
The Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark, run by the GEO Group for ICE, endured a night of disorder after detainees protested delayed meals. Reports indicate significant property damage alongside multiple escapes. As federal agents raced to control the scene, their mission was hindered by protesters outside who sought to bar law enforcement from managing the situation. As law enforcement worked to regain control, a larger debate emerged regarding detention conditions.
The facility hosts individuals accused of serious crimes, including murder and rape, elevating concerns for public safety amidst these recent events. In the wake of the chaos, a manhunt has commenced to track down the missing detainees. Multiple police agencies, ICE agents, and private security rallied to address the turmoil.
Public Safety in Jeopardy
Amidst the chaos, detainees reportedly exploited structural weaknesses to initiate escapes. “Based on what he told me it was an outer wall, not very strong, and they were able to push it down,” said Mustafa Cetin. The disruptions caused significant public safety concerns, prompting authorities to urge the public to report any information on the escapees’ whereabouts.
“Based on what he told me it was an outer wall, not very strong, and they were able to push it down.” – Mustafa Cetin.
As investigations continue, Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka has acknowledged concerns over detainee treatment and meal delivery—elements that may have sparked the unrest. However, while focusing on operational aspects of the incident, Baraka refrained from commenting on protesters impeding federal agents.
Protester Interference Intensifies Situation
Leftist demonstrators outside Delaney Hall intensified challenges faced by law enforcement during the tumultuous evening. Efforts to barricade the facility’s entrance delayed federal agents’ restoration of order and, according to reports, protesters actively blocked law enforcement vehicles. This blending of inside and outside disorder underscores the intersection of detention facility incidents with broader social activism.
“People were hungry and got very angry and started to react and started to rebel against what was going on in the detention center.” – Ellen Whitt.
Twelve individuals used bedsheets to create ropes, allowing them to descend from their dormitory in a coordinated escape. Authorities have urged the community to remain vigilant as the situation unfolds. The incident has prompted greater scrutiny of facilities like Delaney Hall, especially regarding the implications of detainment conditions and the impacts on community safety and protest dynamics.
