A federal judge has issued a significant ruling against Florida’s controversial migrant detention facility, known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” located deep within the Everglades. U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams temporarily halted further construction at the site, citing concerns over potential violations of environmental laws.
While the facility may continue to house detainees, no new infrastructure work is permitted for the next 14 days .
The detention center, constructed on a former training airport within the Big Cypress National Preserve, has faced intense scrutiny from environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe.
Critics argue that the facility threatens the fragile ecosystem of the Everglades and violates the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by proceeding without a comprehensive environmental impact assessment .
In addition to environmental concerns, civil rights attorneys have raised alarms about detainees’ access to legal counsel. Reports indicate that some detainees, including DACA recipients, have been denied confidential legal consultations and coerced into signing deportation orders without proper legal representation .
A separate lawsuit is underway to address these alleged violations of detainees’ legal rights .
The ruling has intensified the debate over the detention center’s future. While Florida officials maintain that the facility is essential for immigration enforcement, opponents argue that its location and conditions are unjust and unlawful.
A final decision on the facility’s fate is expected in the coming weeks.
