President Donald Trump’s contentious migrant detention facility in the Florida Everglades has been placed on hold for two weeks as a federal judge considers claims of environmental damage and human rights abuses.
Following allegations of filthy conditions, denial of medical attention, and abuses of due process by inmates, attorneys, and family members, the administration has placed the facility—dubbed Alligator Alcatraz—under close examination. Critics claim that it operates as a legal black hole that suspends fundamental rights.
Life Without Time or Sunlight
Detainees describe a fluorescent-lit, windowless room where the days blend together. Many claim they haven’t seen sunshine since arriving since they lack access to outside spaces, clocks, and natural light.
A 25-year-old Cuban asylum seeker named Luis Gonzalez told AFP that he was shackled at the wrists, waist, and ankles for over a day after his immigration petition was denied before being brought to a tent-like building that contained eight chain-linked cells, each of which could accommodate about 30 people.
Gonzalez remarked, “I haven’t seen the sun in fourteen days.” They force us to walk like killers with our hands on our heads. I haven’t taken a shower in a week, the restrooms are dirty, and the property is never cleaned. In addition, he spoke of oppressive heat, hordes of mosquitoes, and small sleeping spaces.
Allegations of Neglect and Violence
Numerous inmates describe untreated health conditions. According to 35-year-old Michael Borrego Fernandez, he was neglected until his health worsened and he needed emergency surgery due to a serious bleed. He returned to the hospital after his wounds grew infected due to a lack of post-operative antibiotics.
Other prisoners claim they were physically abused. The 31-year-old Marcos Puig said that after he broke a toilet in protest, guards attacked him. He claims that after being attacked, kicked, and handcuffed, he was left kneeling in a hot room without air conditioning or cameras for twelve hours.
Rafael Collado, a 63-year-old captive, admitted to his partner that he had made two attempts at suicide. He said on the phone, “I have cut my veins.”
Authorities in Florida have refuted all claims of mistreatment.
A New State Role in Immigration Enforcement
Built on an abandoned Everglades airfield in just eight days, the center opened on July 2. In a deal with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Republican-led Florida under Governor Ron DeSantis has taken over detention authority normally reserved for federal officials.
According to reports, the Trump administration wants to implement this approach across the country.
Legal and Environmental Challenges
The plant is the target of two lawsuits. One contends that because federal immigration courts assert they have no authority over the state-run site, detainees are being denied the opportunity to see a judge, ask for bond, or request case reviews. According to Magdalena Cuprys, Gonzalez’s lawyer, it is absolutely unlawful.
According to the second lawsuit, the project poses a threat to the environment of the Everglades.
While the court reviews both cases, the judge’s temporary construction suspension will stand.
