New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced today that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly abandoning its plans for a mass detention center in Roxbury, calling it a significant victory for public safety and the state.
The officials stated that DHS's plans were "always illegal," arguing the Roxbury warehouse was unsuitable for thousands of people and would not enhance New Jersey's safety. They highlighted concerns about "devastating impacts on the water and sewage systems" and compromise to an "environmentally sensitive area."
New Jersey had previously joined the township of Roxbury in legal action to prevent the facility from moving forward. Governor Sherrill and Attorney General Davenport emphasized that this issue is "not a partisan issue" and expressed gratitude for the community's partnership in ensuring the facility is never opened.