Story perspectives

Newark Expands Lawsuit to Shut GEO Prison Over Hazardous Conditions

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

General Jennifer Davenport sued GEO Group and asked a court to allow health inspectors into Delaney Hall due to unsafe conditions.
Governor Mikie Sherrill deployed police to protect a protest zone around Delaney Hall and Mayor Ras Baraka imposed a curfew within a half-mile.
Newark officials announced they will expand their lawsuit against GEO Group to seek the facility’s closure and cited evidence that unsanitary conditions could spread communicable diseases.

History

Historical Context

The September 9-13, 1971 Attica uprising—where 1,281 inmates seized control and 43 people died after Governor Nelson Rockefeller ordered a forceful retake—sparked nationwide prison protests and led New York to adopt grievance procedures and inmate liaison committees. Today, Mayor Ras Baraka and Governor Mikie Sherrill cite that legacy while suing GEO Group over disease-risk conditions at a Newark facility.

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Story summary

General Jennifer Davenport sued GEO Group and asked a court to allow health inspectors into Delaney Hall due to unsafe conditions.
Governor Mikie Sherrill deployed police to protect a protest zone around Delaney Hall and Mayor Ras Baraka imposed a curfew within a half-mile.
Newark officials announced they will expand their lawsuit against GEO Group to seek the facility’s closure and cited evidence that unsanitary conditions could spread communicable diseases.

1 / 2