Newark mayor demands access to inspect ICE facility amid safety concerns

In Newark, New Jersey, Mayor Ras Baraka has taken a stand against the operations of Delaney Hall, a newly opened immigration detention center. This facility, which has become a focal point for protests, was set to increase the administration's capacity to detain immigrants not legally residing in the country. Mayor Baraka, supported by activists, arrived at the facility's gates and sought entry to conduct safety inspections, claiming the GEO Group, which operates Delaney Hall, unlawfully denied access to the site for inspectors. The city has filed a lawsuit alleging numerous construction code violations, including insufficient emergency exits and unsanitary kitchen facilities, creating concerns for both the safety of detainees and workers. During a press conference, Baraka stated that the situation poses risks not only to detainees but also to first responders. He expressed apprehensions regarding the building's condition, citing the potential for children to be detained within its walls. Meanwhile, GEO Group responded to the allegations by defending its practices, claiming that previous administrations, including President Obama's, had operated the facility without controversy. Baraka stressed that he views the issue as a matter of human rights and due process, indicating that the dispute transcends political boundaries. Since its inauguration on May 1, the Delaney Hall facility, which consists of 1,000 beds, was established following a substantial $1 billion contract between ICE and GEO Group. This comes as the Trump administration intensifies its focus on immigration enforcement and deportation efforts. Local officials have pushed back, arguing that the facility should not have opened without addressing outstanding building permit problems. The ongoing legal battle reveals a deeper national divide over immigration policy between the current federal administration and various local leaders. As Sadie, a spokesperson for GEO Group, articulated, the facility is purportedly creating numerous job opportunities, with an average salary that can significantly benefit the local economy. However, Mayor Baraka’s response highlights a glaring concern for the safety and rights of individuals who find themselves in the detention system. While various legal disputes and public protests continue to arise, the future of Delaney Hall remains uncertain amid pressures from city officials and mounting public scrutiny over its operation.