Union County residents oppose sale of jail to ICE and private prison corporations

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders meeting on March 28, 2025, focused on the contentious proposal to sell the Union County Jail, sparking significant public outcry against potential privatization and the involvement of federal immigration enforcement agencies.

During the meeting, numerous speakers expressed their strong opposition to the sale, emphasizing the potential consequences of transferring the facility to private prison corporations or federal agencies like ICE. Community members highlighted personal experiences and broader concerns about the treatment of detainees, with one speaker recounting harrowing experiences during their time in ICE custody. They described conditions that they equated to modern-day slavery, urging the board to reconsider any plans that would facilitate such outcomes.

Advocates for immigrant rights, including representatives from local organizations, argued that selling the jail would contradict the democratic values of the community and could lead to further abuses against vulnerable populations. They called for the facility to be repurposed for affordable housing or community services instead, citing the pressing need for such resources in Union County.

Several speakers pointed out that New Jersey has already taken steps to limit ICE's influence, referencing the passage of legislation aimed at banning private detention facilities. They warned that selling the jail could undermine these efforts and lead to a resurgence of harmful practices associated with immigration detention.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from the community: the board should prioritize the welfare of its constituents and reject any plans that would contribute to the expansion of the immigration detention system. The Freeholders are expected to deliberate on the proposal in the coming weeks, with community members urging them to vote against the sale and instead invest in solutions that benefit the local population.