Sherrill demands transparency after limited Delaney Hall inspection; Davenport calls for dignity, public safety
NEWARK, N.J. (Essex County) — Gov. Mikie Sherrill called for greater transparency at Delaney Hall after state health officials were denied full access during an inspection of the immigration detention facility, while Attorney General Jennifer Davenport emphasized the need to protect detainees’ rights and maintain public safety amid ongoing concerns about conditions at the site.
According to the governor’s office, the New Jersey Department of Health attempted to conduct a health inspection of Delaney Hall but was permitted to inspect only a limited portion of the facility.
“The New Jersey Department of Health today sought to conduct a health inspection of Delaney Hall, but it was denied full access and was allowed to inspect only a limited part of the facility. We will review and share the Department’s findings from the limited portion it was allowed to inspect, and we will continue to pursue all appropriate avenues for demanding transparency and ensuring humane conditions for the individuals being held at the facility,” Sherrill said.
The governor said the state will continue seeking information about conditions inside the facility and criticized the lack of access granted to inspectors.
“As I’ve said repeatedly, refusing to provide full access raises serious questions about what ICE is trying to hide from public view,” she said.
Sherrill also reiterated her opposition to the facility’s operation.
“New Jersey believes in the rule of law, will uphold the Constitution, and Delaney Hall should be closed down. I am calling for ICE to immediately de-escalate the situation as I continue working to keep New Jersey residents safe,” she said.
Davenport issued a separate statement expressing concern over reports regarding conditions for detainees and stressing the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect.
“As we continue to hear reports about troubling conditions for individuals detained at Delaney Hall, I will continue to work with Governor Sherrill and her administration to protect all New Jerseyans and ensure that everyone in our state is treated with dignity and respect,” Davenport said.
The attorney general also addressed recent protests connected to the facility, emphasizing support for peaceful demonstrations while warning against violence.
“We strongly support the constitutional right to protest, but we ask that everyone conduct themselves peacefully and respectfully while expressing their views. Violence against or by protesters is never acceptable, and state and local law enforcement are resolutely committed to protecting public safety and safeguarding constitutional rights. State and local law enforcement will continue to take appropriate steps to protect the public,” Davenport said.
State officials said they will review the findings from the partial inspection and continue efforts to obtain additional access to the facility.
