NewsMother JonesMay 8, 2026United States
Potential Closure of 'Alligator Alcatraz' Immigration Detention Center
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has indicated that the state-run 'Alligator Alcatraz' immigrant detention facility in the Everglades may soon close. The facility, which has held nearly 22,000 people, is currently the subject of multiple lawsuits regarding environmental impact, living conditions, and allegations of detainee abuse.
Read the full story at Mother JonesWhy It Matters
The potential closure of this facility would end a state-run detention operation that has cost Florida at least $390 million and has been a focal point for legal battles over federal versus state authority and human rights standards.
Key Facts
- Governor Ron DeSantis acknowledged that the 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center may be winding down operations.
- The facility has held nearly 22,000 immigrants since its opening last summer.
- Florida has spent at least $390 million to operate the facility.
- The facility was built to assist the Department of Homeland Security with detention space needs.
- A federal appeals court ruled 2-1 that the facility could remain open, rejecting claims that it violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
- The facility is currently under investigation by two US senators regarding allegations of detainee abuse, including the use of small cages in sunlight.
- Attorneys for detainees have alleged that guards assaulted and pepper-sprayed protesters after phone access was cut.
- The Florida Division of Emergency Management has denied allegations of abuse at the facility.
- The facility is located on land identified as sacred tribal territory.
- Florida has not received federal funding for the facility but is seeking reimbursement.
Who's Mentioned
personDaniella Levine Cava“Mayor of Miami-Dade who has publicly opposed the facility.”personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who acknowledged the potential closure of the facility.”locationAlligator Alcatraz“Immigrant detention facility located in the Florida Everglades.”personDonald Trump“Former President whose immigration mandate the facility was built to support.”personWilliam Pryor“Chief Judge who wrote the majority opinion in the environmental lawsuit.”organizationDepartment of Homeland Security“Federal agency that requested additional detention space.”organizationFlorida Division of Emergency Management“State agency responsible for operating the facility.”personNancy Abudu“Judge who wrote the dissenting opinion in the environmental lawsuit.”