PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — One day after nine protesters were arrested outside a controversial immigrant detention center in Newark, New Jersey, Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced safety measures to try to de-escalate the situation while also demanding more transparency from the facility.
For days, protesters have gathered outside Delaney Hall to support an ongoing hunger strike inside the facility, demanding better food and calling for basic human rights.
Overnight Thursday into Friday, protests teetered into violence between demonstrators and federal authorities.
“We all need to do everything we can to cool things down now. I will not give ICE the pretext to expand operations in our state,” Sherrill said.
It’s why, instead of federal authorities, Sherrill said state police will take over monitoring the crowds of protesters outside the facility.
Troopers have set up a 600-yard zone for protesters to gather peacefully and demonstrate. They’ve also blocked vehicle traffic to Delaney Hall.
“Our law enforcement is there to keep everyone safe and to protect the right to protest,” said Jennifer Davenport, New Jersey’s attorney general.
Sherrill said she will continue to push ICE over growing concerns for the safety of those inside the facility. Earlier this week, members of New Jersey’s Department of Health got partial access to inspect food service at the center.
“Delaney Hall is a private detention facility, run by a for-profit company, providing zero transparency. I’m gonna keep working with families and advocates to demand answers,” Sherrill said.
Gov. Sherrill calls for peaceful, protected protest zone
Gov. Sherrill calls for peaceful, protected protest zone
