Four Migrant Detainees Escape Newark Detention Center After Riot
Newark, NJ — In a dramatic turn of events, four migrant detainees successfully escaped from a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Newark, following a riot involving approximately 50 detainees. Authorities have confirmed that the individuals, identified as Franklin Norberto Bautista-Reyes, 27, and Joel Enrique Sandoval-Lopez, 22, both from Honduras, as well as Joan Sebastian Castaneda-Lozada, 21, and Andres Pineda-Mogollon, 22, both from Colombia, were being held on multiple serious criminal charges.
Background of Escape
The incident unfolded at Delaney Hall, which has gained notoriety for its treatment of detainees since its opening. As frustration over meal quality and the timing of their service boiled over, detainees initiated the revolt, pushing down a wall in their dormitory. Reports indicate that some detainees fashioned a makeshift rope out of bedsheets to descend from the third-floor dormitory, facilitating their escape.
Charges Faced by the Escaped Detainees:
- Franklin Norberto Bautista-Reyes: Arrested in May for aggravated assault, attempted bodily injury, and possession of a weapon.
- Joel Enrique Sandoval-Lopez: History of two arrests in the past year, including unlawful possession of a handgun and aggravated assault.
- Joan Sebastian Castaneda-Lozada: Arrested in May on burglary and theft charges.
- Andres Pineda-Mogollon: Facing charges related to residential burglary and possession of burglary tools.
Law Enforcement Response
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI have since launched a manhunt for the fugitives, offering a $10,000 reward for any information that may lead to their capture. A senior DHS official noted that additional law enforcement partners have been deployed to assist in locating the escapees.
This event has raised concerns regarding the conditions within the facility, which has been scrutinized amid their involvement in the Trump administration’s controversial immigration policies. Just hours before the escape, protests erupted outside the detention center, reflecting community frustrations over the treatment of detainees. Notably, U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) was charged with assaulting an officer in relation to the protest activities.
Call for Information
Authorities are urging anyone who might have information about the escaped detainees to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE or call 911. As the investigation unfolds, the public’s assistance may prove crucial in reestablishing safety and apprehending those who have escaped.
This developing story continues to evolve as law enforcement intensifies their efforts to locate the fugitives. Further updates will be made available as more information comes to light.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.