Sherrill Calls for Delaney Hall Closure; NJ Health Denied Access
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill is demanding the closure of Delaney Hall, an immigration detention center in Newark, after alleging the state's Department of Health was denied full access to the facility. The governor's statement has sparked renewed calls for the center's shutdown and triggered demonstrations outside its gates.
According to Governor Sherrill, the New Jersey Department of Health requested access to Delaney Hall to conduct necessary assessments and inspections. However, the request was reportedly denied, preventing officials from fully evaluating the conditions and operations within the detention center. Sherrill’s office has not specified the exact date of the access request or denial, but indicated it occurred recently.
Delaney Hall, operated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), houses individuals awaiting immigration proceedings. Concerns regarding conditions within the facility, including healthcare access and treatment of detainees, have been raised by advocacy groups and legal organizations for several years. These concerns often center on the quality of medical care provided, allegations of inadequate living conditions, and the overall treatment of those held at the center.
The governor’s call for closure adds to mounting pressure on ICE and government officials to address the issues surrounding Delaney Hall. Demonstrations outside the Newark facility have escalated in recent days, with protestors demanding improved conditions and the release of detainees. The governor’s statement is expected to fuel further debate and scrutiny regarding the use of immigration detention centers in New Jersey and the responsibilities of state and federal agencies in ensuring the well-being of those held within them.
