Recent documents revealed by the ACLU through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit, initiated in September 2024, indicate that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is contemplating the expansion of its immigration detention capacity in New Jersey. These documents show a potential increase of around 600 beds at a minimum of two facilities in the state. The revelation aligns with President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to advance one of the most extensive mass deportation and detention strategies in American history.
Concerns have been raised for months by the ACLU of New Jersey and other advocates regarding the Biden administration’s intended expansions, which might also affect up to sixteen other states. Eunice Cho, Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU’s National Prison Project, expressed that rather than closing down inhumane detention facilities, the Biden administration might be setting the stage for Trump’s proposed mass detentions and deportations. She emphasized the urgent need for action to close these facilities.
The specific facilities under consideration include the Elizabeth Detention Center in Elizabeth, operated by CoreCivic, Inc., and the Albert M. “Bo” Robinson Center (ARC) in Trenton, previously owned by GEO Group, Inc. Historical reports have highlighted troubling conditions within these facilities, including neglect and abuse. The ACLU’s FOIA lawsuit aimed to discover more details about ICE’s solicitation for increased detention space, with initial requests for services surfacing on June 26, 2024.
The documents obtained offer a limited perspective, focusing mainly on environmental impact statements provided by the private companies. It remains uncertain whether other facilities in New Jersey responded to ICE’s request or the financial implications for taxpayers. The GEO Group, Inc. has previously indicated its preparation of the Delaney Hall Facility in Newark to meet ICE standards.
In light of these developments, New Jersey has made strides to limit immigrant detention by cutting ICE contracts and dismantling county-run ICE jails. Advocacy for the Immigrant Trust Act continues, as state leaders push against these federal expansion plans. The New Jersey congressional delegation, including Senators and Representatives, has voiced opposition to new private immigration detention facilities. In 2021, New Jersey passed legislation prohibiting the establishment or expansion of detention contracts, which CoreCivic and GEO Group are legally contesting.
While the current situation raises significant concerns about the future of immigration policy in New Jersey, it also reflects a collective effort by state legislators and advocacy groups to protect the rights of immigrants and ensure humane treatment. The rallies for reform underscore a commitment to preserving community cohesion and upholding due process, which offers a glimmer of hope amid challenging circumstances.
Summary: The ACLU has revealed that ICE is planning to expand immigration detention in New Jersey by potentially adding 600 beds across two facilities, prompting concerns from advocates about the implications of such expansion under the incoming Trump administration. Despite past legislation and community opposition, the fight against abusive detention practices continues, highlighting the resilience of advocacy groups and state officials in working towards the fair treatment of immigrants.