Federal Judge Pauses Construction at Controversial Florida Detention Center
A federal judge has issued a temporary two-week halt to construction at a new immigrant detention center in the Florida Everglades, often referred to as “Alligator Alcatraz.” This decision comes as the judge evaluates whether the facility is in violation of environmental laws.
Built just two months ago on a seldom-used training airport, this center is designed to accommodate up to 3,000 detainees in temporary tent structures. The order from U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams puts a stop to any new industrial-style lighting, paving, filling, excavating, or fencing. It also halts any further expansion of the site, including additional buildings or dormitories.
Importantly, this legal decision does not affect ongoing law enforcement activities; the detention center is currently holding hundreds of immigrants. The temporary restraining order was issued after a hearing, with a written follow-up provided later.
Environmental advocates and the Miccosukee Tribe have pushed for a more permanent halt to operations, arguing that the construction jeopardizes vital wetlands that host protected wildlife and plants, potentially reversing extensive environmental restoration efforts.
Eve Samples from Friends of the Everglades expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision, highlighting the urgent need to protect this delicate ecosystem from further harm due to the facility.
A representative for Republican Governor Ron DeSantis expressed disappointment with the ruling but reassured that it would not impact immigration enforcement in the state. “Alligator Alcatraz will continue to operate, aiding in our deportation efforts,” stated spokesperson Alex Lanfranconi.
Legal Arguments Still Underway
The legal dispute continues as both sides prepare their arguments. The plaintiffs have presented witnesses over the past few days to support their case for a preliminary injunction, while the state and federal government are set to counter next week.
During the hearing, attorney Paul Schwiep highlighted that the detention facility is fundamentally linked to immigration enforcement, which is under federal jurisdiction. He noted that if the federal government had not sought a facility, this one would not exist. However, the state asserts that the facility’s construction and operation fall solely under its jurisdiction, suggesting that certain federal regulations may not apply.
Expert testimonies indicated that construction activities have increased impervious surfaces at the site, raising concerns about potential runoff affecting nearby wetlands.
Second Lawsuit Alleges Detainee Rights Violations
This Miami lawsuit is just one of two legal challenges against the detention center, which was constructed by the state on an isolated airstrip. The second lawsuit, brought by civil rights groups, claims that detainees’ rights are being violated as they have limited access to legal counsel and are being held without charges.
In a court filing, the state defended its actions, stating that detainees have indeed been allowed to meet with lawyers, despite earlier complications related to logistics at the center. They claimed all requests for legal meetings have been honored since mid-July.
Under federal law, agencies are required to assess the environmental impact of major construction, which the plaintiffs argue has not been adequately addressed in this instance. The state has maintained that the facility’s creation falls under its oversight, despite federal authority over immigration issues.
As legal proceedings progress, the DeSantis administration appears to be moving forward with plans for a second immigration detention center in northern Florida, indicating ongoing efforts to manage immigration enforcement in the state.
