Jean Wilson Brutus, a 41-year-old undocumented Haitian man, died on December 12th after experiencing a medical emergency a day earlier while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Brutus died at a hospital in Newark, New Jersey, following his transfer from Delaney Hall, a controversial ICE detention center.
Details of the Incident
According to ICE officials, Brutus arrived at Delaney Hall on December 11th and did not appear to be in distress. ICE reports that he had no known history of cardiovascular issues and believes he died of natural causes. Emergency Medical Services attempted life-saving measures before transporting him to University Hospital.
ICE stated that all individuals in their custody receive medical, dental, and mental health intake screenings within 12 hours of arrival at a detention facility. Brutus had a criminal record consisting of arrests for criminal mischief and trespassing, according to ICE.
Calls for Investigation and Closure
Brutus’ death has prompted calls for a thorough investigation and the closure of Delaney Hall. Activists and some Democratic lawmakers have voiced concerns about conditions within the facility. Alison Perkon, a volunteer with “Eyes on ICE,” stated, “I’m furious that this has happened…There’s a saying among volunteers outside the facility: ‘The cruelty is the point’.”
Representative Menendez added that detainees are “not receiving adequate medical attention,” and described conditions within the facility as concerning, noting that many detainees are sick and the food quality is poor.
Immigrant advocates allege that facilities like Delaney Hall, operated by the GEO Group under a $1 billion contract, are financially incentivized to maintain high occupancy rates. Amy Torres, director of the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, described the situation as “a twisted marriage between an administration hell-bent on enacting a racist mass deportation agenda and one of the largest private prison corporations in the world.”
This death at Delaney Hall is the fourth reported fatality at ICE facilities across the country within the past week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delaney Hall?
Delaney Hall is an ICE detention center in Newark, New Jersey, operated by the GEO Group under a $1 billion contract.
What did ICE say about the circumstances of Brutus’ death?
ICE stated that Brutus did not appear to be in distress upon arrival at Delaney Hall and had no known history of cardiovascular issues. They believe he died of natural causes.
What is the reaction to Brutus’ death?
Brutus’ death has sparked calls from activists and lawmakers for an investigation and the closure of Delaney Hall, with concerns raised about the quality of medical care and overall conditions within the facility.
How will this incident impact the debate surrounding immigration detention policies?