Members of Congress Break Into ICE Detention Center in Newark Amid Facility Protest

This is a developing story, based upon preliminary information released by Department of Homeland Security

Two Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives entered the Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey on Friday without authorization, joining protestors in an apparent act of civil disobedience. Representatives Robert Menendez, Jr. and Bonnie Watson Coleman breached the facility’s outer gate as a bus transporting detainees was arriving, and are currently situated inside a guard shack at the initial checkpoint. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) characterized the incident as a serious breach of security, stating that the actions endangered law enforcement personnel and detainees.

DHS officials responded to the incursion by emphasizing that the facility operates with proper permits and meets inspection standards. Authorities added that Congressional members could have arranged a lawful visit through formal channels. The protest comes amid allegations from local officials about the facility’s permitting status, which DHS has refuted. Delaney Hall currently houses individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including those with criminal records and active international warrants.

Among those held at the facility are individuals with documented histories of serious offenses. These include members of transnational gangs such as MS-13, fugitives wanted under INTERPOL Red Notices for crimes like homicide and sexual assault, and individuals convicted of or charged with child exploitation, rape, and drug trafficking. ICE listed several of its recent high-profile arrests, many of whom are now in custody at Delaney Hall pending removal proceedings or extradition.

Representative Menendez, whose district includes parts of Newark and Elizabeth, and Representative Watson Coleman, representing New Jersey’s 12th District, are both known for progressive legislative agendas. Watson Coleman has a long record of advocacy on prison reform and poverty issues, including efforts to ban for-profit prison contracts. Menendez, a former Port Authority Commissioner, has prioritized infrastructure and criminal justice issues in his congressional work. Neither representative has issued a public statement yet regarding their actions at the facility.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Public Affairs press release. This is a developing story.

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