Story perspectives

N.J. Lawmakers Tour Detention Center, Decry Inhumane Conditions

5/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ) said detention conditions aim to demoralize inmates into signing departure papers.
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ) and Rep. Nellie Pou (D-NJ) toured the detention center in Newark on May 11, 2026.
The GEO Group-run facility holds about 680 detainees in a 1,196-bed capacity and only seven full-time medical staff for 800 detainees.
Protesters from Montclair and Little Falls gathered outside, demanding the center’s closure and better conditions.

1 of 1

Story summary

Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ) said detention conditions aim to demoralize inmates into signing departure papers.
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ) and Rep. Nellie Pou (D-NJ) toured the detention center in Newark on May 11, 2026.
The GEO Group-run facility holds about 680 detainees in a 1,196-bed capacity and only seven full-time medical staff for 800 detainees.
Protesters from Montclair and Little Falls gathered outside, demanding the center’s closure and better conditions.