🚨 TENSION AT DELANEY HALL: FOUR DETAINEES UNACCOUNTED FOR AFTER PROTEST IN NEWARK
JerseyTalks StaffA protest at the Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark escalated into a serious incident Thursday night, leaving four detainees unaccounted for and prompting widespread concern from local leaders, advocacy groups, and law enforcement.
📍 What Happened
The incident began late Thursday when approximately 50 detainees initiated a protest reportedly over delayed or missed meals. Witness accounts and internal reports describe unrest in one of the dormitories, where a wall was damaged and detainees were seen attempting to lower themselves from upper floors using bedsheets.
As of Friday morning, four detainees remain unaccounted for, though authorities have not confirmed whether they escaped or are still on the premises. A multi-agency search is currently underway.
💨 Security Response
Officials deployed chemical agents—possibly pepper spray or tear gas—inside the facility. Several people outside the building also reported respiratory irritation, coughing, and a strong chemical odor. Witnesses said they heard “popping sounds” believed to be crowd control devices.
🧍 Outside the Facility
As news of the protest spread, family members, community leaders, and advocacy organizations gathered outside Delaney Hall to demand transparency and accountability. Some demonstrators attempted to block ICE transport vehicles, prompting police to install barriers and enforce a wider perimeter around the facility.
🗣️ Official Reactions
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the situation, calling the conditions inside Delaney Hall “inhumane”.
As of publication, ICE and GEO Group (which operates Delaney Hall) have not released official public statements regarding the protest or the missing detainees.
📊 Quick Facts
| Detail | Status |
|---|---|
| Protest origin | Meal delays or missed food service |
| Estimated number of participants | ~50 detainees |
| Physical damage | Dormitory wall broken |
| Attempted escape | Bedsheets used to descend from upper floors |
| Detainees unaccounted for | 4 individuals |
| Law enforcement response | Tear gas/pepper spray reported |
| Outside protest | Yes — families and advocacy groups present |
| Official statements | From Mayor Baraka and Rep. McIver only |
🔍 What’s Next
Authorities continue searching for the missing individuals and reviewing internal protocols. Local officials are calling for increased oversight and transparency, while advocates demand improved conditions inside the detention center.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.