ACLU-NJ challenges ICE visitation rules after Delaney Hall detainee death
The ACLU of New Jersey sent a letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement regarding constitutional concerns over visitation at Delaney Hall following the death of Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo.
A coalition of activists gathered in front of Delaney Hall in Newark on Saturday, August 8, 2026, to protest federal immigration policies and conditions inside the facility. The demonstration drew about 40 people as part of a National Day of Action held across the country against ICE and President Donald Trump's administration.
The event took place one week after Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo died at University Hospital in Newark following a medical emergency while detained at the center. Organizers chanted slogans like shut it down and free them all during the rally, which was described as calm compared to high-profile clashes that have plagued the site in recent months.
Constitutional Concerns Raised by ACLU
The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey sent a formal letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Tuesday raising serious constitutional concerns about visitation policies at Delaney Hall. The facility is owned and operated by GEO Group, a private for-profit prison company contracted by the Trump administration to hold undocumented immigrants.
ACLU officials stated that visitation with loved ones is essential, though the full text of their specific demands regarding policy changes was not fully detailed in available reports beyond the initial constitutional warning. This legal action follows growing scrutiny over how detainees are treated and whether they receive adequate access to family members while held at the Newark site.
Conflicting Accounts on Medical Care
Family members of Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo stated that he was not given regular treatment for diabetes and high blood pressure before his death. In response, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security denied these claims and asserted that many illegal aliens receive their best healthcare while in federal custody.
ICE confirmed that Cornejo died on Saturday after suffering a medical emergency but described him as receiving proper medical care from professionals at University Hospital. The agency's statement contrasts sharply with the family's account, creating uncertainty for residents about whether detainees are being treated adequately during health crises.
Reporting Rules Under Scrutiny
U.S. Representative Bob Menendez of New Jersey's 8th District raised questions on Tuesday about a recent change in ICE reporting rules that may have kept another death hidden from the public. Menendez alleged that a second detainee suffered a seizure while being processed at Delaney Hall and was later released to University Hospital.
According to Menendez, this second individual lost consciousness and died after leaving federal custody because they were no longer in ICE control when their condition worsened. The congressman argued that the new policy change means deaths occurring immediately after release are not publicly reported, which he claims is done to keep official death numbers low.
Community Reaction and Protests
Organizers at Saturday's protest emphasized unity across the country as a way to stop what they described as an attack on immigrants by the Trump administration. Alec Courtney of Staten Island told the crowd that an injury to one person is an injury to all, calling for forces to unite against current policies.
Carol Lang from the Bronx stated during the rally that Cornejo's death underscores the need to abolish ICE and shut down what she called their dungeons while guaranteeing equal rights. Another group of protesters shouted at GEO Group employees just feet away in Newark before a skirmish occurred where staff fired pepper spray at some demonstrators.
Context for District Residents
Delaney Hall has faced continuous scrutiny over the last two years, with New Jersey's Democratic federal lawmakers stating that three detainees have died since December. The facility is located within the 11th Congressional District area of Newark and serves as a focal point for local activists concerned about immigration enforcement practices.
Residents in Morris, Essex, and Passaic counties are witnessing these developments through protests near their borders and statements from federal representatives who oversee parts of this region. No ICE agents were spotted outside the facility during Saturday's protest, though GEO Group employees remained present to manage security around the gates.
Questions residents are asking
How many detainees have died at Delaney Hall recently?
New Jersey Democratic federal lawmakers state that three detainees have died since December. One confirmed death is Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo, who passed away on Saturday after a medical emergency.
Why might some deaths not be reported publicly?
Representative Bob Menendez claims a recent ICE policy change means deaths are not reported if the detainee was released to a hospital before dying. He argues this allows officials to keep reported death numbers lower than they actually are.
What is the ACLU asking for in their letter?
The ACLU of New Jersey sent a letter raising serious constitutional concerns about visitation policies at Delaney Hall. They argue that contact with loved ones is essential but did not specify further demands in the available reports.