Masked individuals engaged in aggressive and dangerous actions against Newark and New Jersey State Police (NJSP) at Delaney Hall, attacking a barrier in a protected protest area, Governor Sherrill Delaney Hall announced. The individuals threw projectiles, used barriers as weapons, and lit tires on fire, endangering both peaceful protestors and law enforcement who were not in protective gear.
Governor Hall stated, "My number one priority will always be public safety, and I remain dedicated to protecting constitutional rights. We simply cannot let ICE surge into our community." She noted that police had been on location since early morning to ensure safe exercise of rights for protestors and counter-protestors.
While the Governor expressed uncertainty about the attackers' motives, she affirmed her refusal to let these actions detract from New Jersey's commitment to public safety, protecting people from ICE, and ensuring dignified treatment for detainees. She urged everyone to "work together to bring the temperature down," focusing on advocating for better detainee conditions, supporting families, and the eventual closure of Delaney Hall.