The GEO Group, a private company managing over 20 federal immigration facilities, is facing allegations of inhumane conditions at its Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey. This comes despite the immigrant background of its founder, George Zoley, who arrived in the U.S. via Ellis Island in 1953.
Allegations of Mistreatment
Delaney Hall, a 1,000-bed facility, has been criticized for poor conditions, including spoiled food, overcrowding, and inadequate medical care. These allegations have sparked protests and criticism, particularly as the facility is part of a business empire built on government contracts for housing detained immigrants.
Former detainees and their families have spoken out about the harsh conditions. Maria Hurtado, whose husband is detained at Delaney Hall, described the meals as comparable to “cat food” and reported that detainees are treated “like animals.” Her husband, Marlon Torres, was detained by ICE during an immigration appointment and has been held for three months.
Company’s Response
GEO Group has not directly addressed the allegations but maintains that their facilities comply with ICE’s detention standards. A company spokesperson stated that GEO Group provides various support services, including medical care and legal visitation, monitored by ICE and other organizations.
Despite these assurances, attorneys for detainees argue that the conditions at Delaney Hall reflect broader issues within detention facilities across the country. Immigration lawyer Selenia Destefani noted that Delaney Hall is not an isolated case, pointing to similar conditions in other facilities.
Founder’s Immigrant Experience
George Zoley, who founded The GEO Group in 1984, has often spoken about how his immigrant experience shaped his values. During a 2020 congressional testimony, he emphasized the importance of not placing profit above people. However, critics argue that the conditions at GEO Group facilities contradict these stated values.
As the largest for-profit jailer of immigrants and ICE’s biggest contractor, GEO Group’s practices continue to be a focal point in discussions about immigration enforcement and detainee treatment in the United States.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
