Blue state ICE facility ramps up security with new barricades amid clashes with protesters

Large yellow barricades were seen at the front of Delaney Hall in Newark, New Jersey on Tuesday morning, following protests that occurred at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on Monday and last week. An ICE officer informed Fox News Digital that the barricades were put in place following Monday’s protests, extending all the way up to the gate itself. Along with the barricades, signs have been posted stating “private property, no trespassing, violators will be prosecuted.”

The facility is managed by the GEO Group, a private contractor, but there is also a heavy law enforcement presence outside the building. Two individuals were arrested at the protest on Monday, which included a demonstration by clergy members who expressed their willingness to be taken into custody. They linked arms outside the main gate of Delaney Hall, chanting and singing songs to voice their concerns.

This protest followed the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a Democratic candidate for governor, who was charged with trespassing last week. Baraka’s arrest took place during a protest at the facility attended by three members of Congress, who stated that they were present to perform their congressionally-mandated oversight duties related to federal detention facilities. The lawmakers rushed through the gates and past security after an ICE bus was allowed entry, leading to the incident.

Activists had been calling for access to the privately run facility for several days, which was recently revamped as an immigration detention center. The facility was previously utilized by ICE from 2011 to 2017 for migrant detentions. Many of the current detainees at Delaney Hall are facing criminal charges or have already been convicted of crimes, according to the Washington Post.

Following Monday’s demonstration, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the actions of the protesters and Democrats, labeling the incident as a “cheap political stunt.” She emphasized the potential risks posed to law enforcement officers, staff, and detainees during the protest, denouncing the assault on law enforcement officers.

United States Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba announced that her office is conducting a thorough investigation into the events that took place at Delaney Hall on Friday. She stated that all available evidence will be meticulously reviewed before determining the appropriate course of action. Habba emphasized the seriousness of the matter and assured that the investigation would be conducted diligently.

In conclusion, the protests and arrests at Delaney Hall have sparked controversy and raised questions about the treatment of detainees and the actions of law enforcement. The ongoing investigations by federal authorities indicate a commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law in such situations.