Governor Sherrill expressed deep disturbance following the death of a detainee at Delaney Hall over the weekend. The Governor stated that the individual's loved ones deserve answers regarding the circumstances of the death.
The administration is currently working with the Congressional delegation to gather all facts related to the death. According to the Governor, efforts to conduct a full health inspection of the facility have faced obstruction. The Governor noted that attempts to block oversight raise questions regarding the operations inside Delaney Hall and what facility operators may be attempting to hide.
Sherrill characterized the tragedy as a reminder of why Delaney Hall should be closed. The Governor has long opposed the use of private, for-profit prisons in spaces reserved for government and stated that corporations should not monetize imprisonment while avoiding public accountability.
The administration plans to continue fighting for transparency and justice using all available legal tools to protect the rights of those held in the facility. Efforts will continue to stop new private detention facilities, such as the proposed facility in Roxbury, from opening. The Governor stated that the administration will not stop until the people of New Jersey receive the answers they deserve.
