New Jersey Investigates Civil Rights Violations at ICE Facility Delaney Hall
New Jersey has launched a civil rights investigation into Delaney Hall, an ICE detention center in Newark, amid concerns over detainee deaths and allegations of inadequate medical care. The state’s Division on Civil Rights is examining possible civil rights violations by employees of GEO Group, which operates the facility. Subpoenas have been issued for the probe.
According to Attorney General Jennifer Davenport’s office, the investigation will assess if GEO Group employees’ actions or inactions breached detainees’ civil rights. Davenport stated that New Jersey is committed to preserving detainees’ rights to humane treatment and proper medical care, promising to pursue all legal avenues to uphold these principles.
Yolanda N. Melville, Director of the Division on Civil Rights, emphasized the need to protect civil rights, particularly in vulnerable settings. She assured that the investigation will be thorough and impartial, adhering to New Jersey law.
Ensuring that civil rights are upheld in all settings is crucial, especially in environments where individuals may be vulnerable.– Yolanda N. Melville, Director of the Division on Civil Rights
This investigation follows heightened scrutiny over Delaney Hall’s conditions, including accusations regarding substandard medical care.
Recent Incidents at Delaney Hall
Edwin Lopez-Cornejo’s death is a focal point. He was a Salvadoran detained at Delaney Hall from June. His death marked the 22nd in ICE custody this year and the second at this center. ICE stated Lopez-Cornejo experienced a medical emergency on August 1 and was transported to University Hospital, where he died. His family questions whether he received adequate treatment for his existing health conditions, such as diabetes and epilepsy.
The prior death of Jean Wilson Brutus, a 41-year-old Haitian, also raised concerns. Brutus died from a pulmonary embolism in December 2025 after a medical emergency at Delaney Hall.
Protests and Public Response
Conditions at Delaney Hall have sparked both internal and external protests, drawing significant public attention. Demonstrations have led to clashes with law enforcement, and detainees previously engaged in a hunger and labor strike regarding food, medical care, and overall conditions. The protests have increased political pressure on ICE and GEO Group, prompting calls for enhanced oversight.
A protester, struck by a vehicle outside a Father’s Day protest, plans to sue federal immigration authorities and the private prison operator.
Detainee Rights in ICE Custody
Despite detainment being civil, not criminal, detainees retain crucial legal rights. ICE’s detention standards include guidelines for medical care, legal access, communication, and grievance procedures. Detainees are entitled to necessary medical, dental, and mental health care, provided at no cost.
Access to Medical Care
The Health Services Administrator (HSA) or Clinical Medical Authority (CMA) oversees healthcare in facilities. While detention is civil, it lies with the government to ensure medical care under constitutional due process and other laws.
Access to Legal Representation
ICE guidelines state that detainees must have access to legal services, even in disciplinary segregation. Detainees may hire attorneys or seek non-profit legal help, though the government typically does not provide free legal counsel.
Communication and Grievances
Detainees can communicate with family using approved means. ICE policies also allow detainees to file grievances about facility conditions, treatment, or staff conduct. Facilities must develop a process for handling these grievances and ensuring no reprisal.
For further information and updates on this story, contact Newsweek editors Matthew Robinson and Trevor Davies.