May 30, 2026 - WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement regarding the rapid escalation at Delaney Hall. On Wednesday, Booker conducted an oversight visit to the detention facility.

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Statement from Senator Booker:

“I am deeply disturbed and outraged by the rapid escalation overnight at Delaney Hall, especially with video emerging that appears to show an ICE agent striking a protester with a baton into what seemed to be a moving 18-wheeler truck. On Wednesday, during my visit, I spoke directly with DHS staff about the need for de-escalation tactics. What has happened since — including the serious injuries to protesters outside Delaney Hall and reports that detainees are being assaulted and pepper-sprayed inside the facility demands accountability. My team is gathering the facts surrounding these incidents, and I have reached out to ICE for clarification.

“Individuals with firsthand information or concerns are encouraged to contact my office as well as the appropriate authorities.

“This treatment underscores why I have repeatedly vowed to not bend and give another penny to ICE in DHS budget negotiations.

“The facts speak for themselves. More than 70% of people in ICE detention have never been convicted of a crime. Most Americans, if they saw who is being held at Delaney Hall and the conditions under which they are detained, would agree that this facility is a moral stain on our nation and should be closed immediately.”

SEE ALSO:
Booker Demands DHS Shuts Down Delaney Hall Following Second Congressional Oversight Visit This Year

Source: Senator Cory Booker