Sherrill orders ‘protest zone’ outside Delaney Hall to calm violent clashes Governor Mikie Sherrill has established a “protest zone” outside the Delaney Hall immigration detention center, monitored by New Jersey State Police, to prevent violent clashes between anti-ICE protesters and federal officers. The decision follows increasing violence and threats at the facility, which DHS disputes. Both pro- and anti-ICE protesters are expected to demonstrate, with Sherrill also desiring the closure of the private detention center.

• Governor Mikie Sherrill ordered the creation of a “protest zone” outside Newark’s Delaney Hall immigration detention center.
• The zone is intended to prevent violent clashes between anti-ICE protesters and federal officers.
• New Jersey State Police will monitor the “peaceful, protected” area.
• The move comes after a week of escalating tensions, arrests, and pepper spray incidents at the facility.
• DHS thanked Governor Sherrill for allowing state police cooperation, calling it a “win for law and order.”
• Protests began after detainees led a hunger and labor strike over alleged poor conditions, which DHS disputes.
• Attempts by New Jersey Democrats, including Governor Sherrill, to access the facility have been denied.
• A state health inspection was also limited in scope.
• Dueling pro- and anti-ICE demonstrations are expected, with both groups to be granted police-maintained protest zones.
• Governor Sherrill has reiterated her desire to close Delaney Hall, a private facility operated by the GEO Group.