Full Breakdown
Hunger Strike at Delaney Hall Ignites Violent Protests and Political Fallout
6/8/2026, 12:53:11 PM
Hunger Strike Triggers Violent Protests at Delaney Hall
In early June 2026, at least 300 detainees at the privately run Delaney Hall immigration detention center in Newark began a hunger and labor strike, alleging spoiled food, inadequate medical care, and abuse. Demonstrators gathered outside, demanding release of vulnerable detainees. ICE agents used batons, pepper spray, and stun guns; New Jersey State Police intervened, resulting in over 60 arrests and injuries.
Timeline of Key Incidents
- June 1 – Newark curfew after surge in arrests.
- June 5 – ICE uses pepper-ball guns; DHS announces four felony arrests.
- June 6 – Photographer Pacheco hit by vehicle; protester Kai hit by pepper-ball.
- June 7 – Gov. Sherrill deploys state police; Mayor Baraka scales back city police.
Key Figures & Groups
Governor Mikie Sherrill, Mayor Ras Baraka, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, ICE, GEO Group, and Senator Andy Kim are central. New Jersey State Police and Newark Police enforce security.
Data & Statistics
At least 300 detainees are on strike in a 1,000-bed center. Over 80 arrests have occurred in two weeks, including 60 on June 5. The state has allocated $20 million for legal defense, adding $12 million on June 7.
Official Statements & Responses
Sherrill said her priority was “preventing any loss of life” and announced expanded legal aid. Baraka warned the city would not continue funding protection of a privately owned facility and urged peaceful protest. Mullin declared assaulting ICE officers a felony and warned “rioters will NOT slow us down.”
Criticism & Opposition
Progressive legislators called Sherrill’s use of state troopers “cooperation with a divisive immigration crackdown.” Republicans cited the clashes as proof of Democratic weakness on crime. Detainees and advocates continue to allege medical neglect and substandard food.
On-the-Ground Reports
Joseph Pacheco was hospitalized after a vehicle struck him while blocking ICE-secured entrances. Protester Kai reported being hit twice by a pepper-ball gun; detainee Martin Soto, identified as a strike leader, was moved from solitary confinement.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
ICE asserts no hunger strike exists, while detainees and advocacy groups claim ongoing strikes and report mold, maggots in food, and poor medical care. Inspections have been denied, prompting a state lawsuit against GEO Group for restricting access.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We will NOT be deterred by these violent rioters.” — Markwayne Mullin, DHS Secretary
- “It wasn’t about politics,” — Mikie Sherrill, Governor of New Jersey
- “We urge all protesters to remain peaceful so that attention remains focused on the urgent health and safety needs of detainees and the closing of Delaney Hall.” — Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark
- “They restricted my ability to do my job,” — Sen. Andy Kim, U.S. Senator
What’s Next
The New Jersey Attorney General has sued GEO Group for denying health-inspector access. Sherrill’s Rapid Legal Response Initiative will broaden immigration defense statewide. The facility remains a focal point, and federal oversight of ICE at Delaney Hall is expected to increase.
