A recent unannounced visit to the Delaney Hall ICE Detention Facility in Newark by several public officials—including lawmakers and the mayor of Newark—has drawn significant attention and prompted a formal review by federal authorities. The May 9, 2025, visit, which took place without prior coordination, has raised questions about access to federal facilities and the limits of political oversight.
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the group entered a secured section of the facility without following standard entry procedures. ICE officials stated that established protocols—designed to ensure safety and operational security—were bypassed. The situation escalated into a verbal and physical confrontation between some members of the visiting group and federal officers.
ICE released body camera footage that appears to show moments of physical contact, including an instance in which an officer is seen falling during the incident. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has labeled the visit as unauthorized and is reviewing whether any legal violations occurred. Possible charges, including trespassing and interference with federal officers, are under consideration, though no final decisions have been made.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at DHS, emphasized in a press briefing that “security measures at federal facilities are in place for the safety of all involved. Entry without coordination—even by public officials—raises serious concerns.”
Continue reading on next page…