Newark Sues to Shut 300-Bed Delaney Hall Detention Center Over Health Concerns
Updated
Updated · WABC-TV · Jun 2
Newark Sues to Shut 300-Bed Delaney Hall Detention Center Over Health Concerns
3 articles · Updated · WABC-TV · Jun 2
Newark filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking to close Delaney Hall, saying reports from the 300-inmate ICE detention center show serious health and safety failures.
Mayor Ras Baraka said allegations include poor food, inadequate medical care, unsafe conditions and one inmate suffering a miscarriage without proper treatment, prompting the city to expand its legal action.
Protests and an alleged hunger strike have continued since May 22, with clashes between demonstrators and federal and state officers leading to dozens of arrests before a calm Monday night.
Baraka said Newark's community police helped stabilize the area; a 9 p.m.-6 a.m. curfew remains in place for now, though he hopes to lift it within days and reopen pedestrian access for peaceful protests.
DHS called the lawsuit frivolous, said Delaney Hall complies with state and local laws, and pointed to a May 28 state health inspection of the facility's kitchen.