Clashes Erupt in Newark Between Rioters and State Police
On Friday night in Newark, organized rioters defied a directive from the State Police to move to a designated ‘First Amendment zone,’ resulting in intense clashes between law enforcement and rioters. The confrontation occurred even as Governor Mikie Sherrill stressed that the police were present to protect the crowd from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
A police officer communicated over a PA system, “For your security, we need you to relocate to the First Amendment zone.” Despite this, the crowd insisted on staying, stating, “We will not, we will not, I’m expressing my First Amendment right here.” The confrontation took place near the Delaney Hall ICE facility in Newark.
As the night progressed, troopers, including those on horseback, utilized heavy riot control measures, deploying noise bombs, tear gas grenades, pepper spray, and riot shields to disperse the crowd. Earlier in the day, police had set up barriers for the zone, which rioters used against the officers.
Governor Sherrill posted on X, “My top priority is keeping New Jerseyans and our communities safe – and an increased ICE surge in the area outside of Delaney Hall is a threat to public safety. Lives would be at risk were that to happen, and I will not accept that risk.” During the conflict, rioters damaged ICE vehicles.
New Jersey is known as a ‘sanctuary state,’ limiting cooperation between federal immigration authorities and local law enforcement. Despite claims from Sherrill about ICE being a threat, ICE thanked the police for their presence in controlling the violent rioters. ICE’s statement expressed gratitude and emphasized that assaults on law enforcement officers will not be tolerated.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also showed appreciation for local law enforcement, stating that their officers faced significant threats and dangers. DHS clarified that detainees, primarily those who have committed crimes in the U.S., are well-cared for and receive compensation for work done on-site.
During the chaos, ICE agents deployed pepper ball rounds, and local police engaged with rioters, resulting in property damage and people affected by pepper spray and tear gas. Protesters provided support by distributing water and supplies nearby. The events were part of ongoing protests lasting several days.
Counter-protesters and pro-ICE groups held a demonstration on Saturday morning, which saw an even larger police presence.