Family of man who died in ICE detention in New Jersey alleges medical negligence in custody

The family of Edwin Lopez-Cornejo, a man from El Salvador, has accused the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of medical negligence during his detention at the Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey. Lopez-Cornejo, who suffered from high blood pressure, diabetes, and epilepsy, died in custody on Saturday, according to ICE.

His mother, Maria Cornejo, stated that her son had called a day before his death and expressed concerns about his condition, specifically mentioning the loss of feeling in half his face and arm. Furthermore, Lopez-Cornejo's 12-year-old daughter alleged that he was denied necessary medications and had lost a significant amount of weight while in detention.

ICE officials responded by declaring that Lopez-Cornejo was pronounced dead after a medical emergency at University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey. They claimed that facility staff and medical personnel responded promptly by calling 911 for emergency services. The official cause of death is still under investigation. Despite this, the family has demanded an independent inquiry into their son's death.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill added that her administration faces obstacles in conducting a full health inspection of the facility.

ICE has defended its handling of Lopez-Cornejo, asserting that proper medical care was provided. They reiterated their statement when asked for additional comment. The death of Lopez-Cornejo has reignited broader concerns over the conditions in US immigration detention facilities, with over 50 individuals succumbing to their ailments while in ICE custody since President Donald Trump took office in January of the previous year.

Rights groups have consistently raised alarms about medical care and living conditions within these facilities.