Officials say ICE facility Democrats ‘stormed’ holds child rapists, murderers
Democratic lawmakers and protesters made headlines on Friday as they stormed the gate of Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey. This secure immigration facility was the site of a heated confrontation, as advocates pushed for the release of detainees labeled as “murderers, terrorists, child rapists, and MS-13 gang members” by Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
The incident began when a group of protesters, including members of Congress, chased after a bus of detainees entering the security gate. The situation escalated as they broke into the facility, according to a news release from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Rep. LaMonica McIver, D-N.J., and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-N.J., were reportedly involved in the altercation. McIver later claimed that ICE officials had “shoved” her and “manhandled” Watson Coleman. However, footage released by Homeland Security showed McIver pushing and elbowing officials as they defended the gate.
In response to the incident, DHS posted information about some of the detainees the lawmakers were advocating for. Chinchilla Caballero, arrested on April 29, was identified as a known active member of MS-13. Ramos Marin, arrested on April 3, was wanted for murder in Brazil and had an active INTERPOL Red Notice.
Saravia Santamaria, arrested on May 1, was a verified MS-13 member from El Salvador. Adonis Estevez Bello, arrested on May 5, had multiple felony convictions including drug trafficking and gang affiliations. Maximo Nunez, also arrested on May 5, had felony arrests for various offenses including assault with a deadly weapon.
Despite the DHS providing this information, Democratic lawmakers and protesters continued to demand the release of these detainees. The incident drew attention to the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the treatment of individuals in detention centers.
The actions of the lawmakers and protesters sparked a debate about the role of government officials in advocating for detainees, as well as the methods used to push for their release. The incident also highlighted the deep divisions within the country over immigration issues and the treatment of individuals in detention.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how lawmakers, protesters, and government officials will address the concerns raised during the storming of the Delaney Hall Detention Center.
