Federal Agents Withdraw From Newark Detention Center as 3 Protesters Are Arrested
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 29
Federal Agents Withdraw From Newark Detention Center as 3 Protesters Are Arrested
13 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 29
New Jersey State Police said Friday they negotiated the withdrawal of federal agents from the parking lot outside Newark's Delaney Hall detention center and will now oversee demonstrations there.
Friday's handover followed violent clashes under DHS oversight, when federal officers charged into a crowd, used chemical irritant, beat one fleeing demonstrator with a baton and arrested three protesters.
Governor Mikie Sherrill said state police would set up a designated protest zone outside the facility, aiming to restore order after days of confrontation.
DHS called the pullback a "win for law and order" and said agents had used only the minimum force needed against protesters it described as rioters obstructing officers.
The unrest has grown around Delaney Hall as detained immigrants continue an 8-day hunger and labor strike over conditions inside the facility.
With state and federal forces at odds in Newark, what is the fate of the hunger strikers inside?
When state police and federal agents create opposing perimeters, which authority will ultimately prevail?
Private prisons get billions in funding, but who is accountable for the 'inhumane' conditions they create?
Crisis at Delaney Hall: 2026 Hunger Strike, Protests, and State-Federal Clash Over Private ICE Detention in New Jersey
Overview
In late May 2026, tensions at Delaney Hall surged as detainees launched a hunger and labor strike to protest inhumane conditions, including spoiled food and systemic problems. While federal officials denied these claims and insisted the facility met standards, elected officials were barred from entering to assess the situation. The ACLU-NJ and Senator Andy Kim attributed the unrest to poor conditions and lack of resources, highlighting detainees’ calls for the release of vulnerable individuals. This internal unrest quickly led to confrontational protests outside, escalating the conflict between state and federal authorities over oversight and humane treatment at the private detention center.