New Jersey tightens security around migrant center as protests grow

New Jersey is taking extra steps to control protests near a large immigrant detention facility in Newark. While visits for detainees resumed Sunday, the area around Delaney Hall is now off-limits to protesters after recent clashes between activists and federal agents. State police have expanded their presence beyond just the facility’s entrance, citing safety concerns. Governor Mikie Sherrill has asked protesters to stay calm, warning that unrest could bring more federal law enforcement into the state. Since early 2025, the federal government has used protests as a reason to send agents into cities. Sherrill insists ICE shouldn’t have a bigger role in local policing. Over the weekend, nine people were arrested during demonstrations, with police saying some protesters were peaceful while others escalated tensions.The facility, run by Geo Group under ICE supervision, has faced criticism for years. Lawmakers and advocates argue it’s poorly managed and violates basic human rights. After visiting the center, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called for its immediate shutdown, calling conditions unacceptable. Senator Andy Kim, who has served in office for years, said the protests have created an unusually tense situation in New Jersey. Federal officials, meanwhile, insist operations at Delaney Hall will continue normally. But they’ve also threatened to slow down international travel at nearby Newark Airport if local police don’t cooperate with immigration enforcement. Senator Kim dismissed the idea, calling it a bad move that would hurt New Jersey’s economy and reputation.