ICE Agents Clear Blockade at NJ Detention Center With Pepper Spray

Dozens of ICE agents clashed with protesters outside Delaney Hall immigration detention center in Newark on Monday morning. Demonstrators had gathered to block the transfer of detainee Martin Soto, who began a hunger and work strike on Friday. Protesters said agents deployed pepper spray and batons to clear the area and move vehicles.

At least one demonstrator was pepper-sprayed and another suffered a leg injury, according to accounts reported by Gothamist.

Background on the Strike The hunger strike began after roughly 300 detainees signed a letter alleging poor conditions and insufficient medical care at the facility. Soto’s wife, Gabriela, has been organizing protests outside the center and attempted to stop the transfer by blocking a van.

Officials stated that the transfer to the Elizabeth contract detention facility was completed later that evening despite the demonstrations. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said approximately 125 people formed a human chain and barricades around the facility earlier on May 24.

The Department of Homeland Security said agents dispersed about 70 demonstrators and removed barricades to allow operations to resume. The statement also noted that visitation has been suspended for safety reasons. GEO Group, which operates the facility, said it provides around-the-clock medical care, legal visitation, and other services, and that all of its ICE centers maintain industry accreditations.

““On May 24, 2026, approximately 125 agitators surrounded Delaney Hall Detention Facility. They formed a human chain around entrances to the facility and set up barricades, blocking all entries and exits.””

New Jersey senator Andy Kim posted on X that he visited the facility Monday morning with other members of the state delegation to meet with families of detainees.