Gov. Mikie Sherrill condemns ‘aggressive and dangerous’ protesters outside ICE facility
On Saturday, some protesters pushed against barricades, threw rocks and lit tires on fire.
Mason Reed 
New Jersey State Police arrived on the scene Sunday to manage volatile clashes unfolding outside an immigration detention center in Newark. The surge in tension follows a chaotic weekend that prompted Gov. Mikie Sherrill to demand a de-escalation of the situation.
Escalation at Delaney Hall
In a public statement released Sunday morning, Gov. Sherrill characterized the behavior of some protesters as “aggressive and dangerous,” urging those gathered to “bring the temperature down.” Reports from NJ.com indicate that Saturday's activity included demonstrators pushing against barricades, hurling rocks, and lighting tires on fire. Law enforcement responded to the unrest by deploying tear gas, shields, and additional barricades.
“These actions put both peaceful protestors and law enforcement in danger,” Sherrill said. She noted that the focus should remain on advocating for improved conditions for detainees and their families, with the ultimate goal of shuttering Delaney Hall.
Background on the Unrest
The ongoing turmoil follows a week of high-stakes conflict that ignited last Monday, when U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., was pepper-sprayed by ICE agents amid a growing controversy regarding the facility's operations. Reports from advocates and families suggest that detainees are on a hunger strike inside the building, alleging they have been subjected to beatings and gas attacks by guards.
In an effort to regain control, the mayor of Newark implemented a 9 p.m. curfew on Sunday. Regarding the status of facility access, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security told The Associated Press that visitation had been suspended due to the “violent riots,” but noted that with a secure perimeter now in place, visitation is set to resume.
