Miami —A federal judge has halted the planned expansion of Florida’s “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention facility, ruling that the controversial site in the Everglades violates environmental laws. U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams ordered officials to stop accepting new detainees and to begin dismantling temporary fencing, lighting, and other infrastructure within 60 days as detainees are relocated.
This ruling follows lawsuits from environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, which argued that the facility poses a threat to wetlands and endangered wildlife, including Florida panthers and wood storks. Williams stated that the injunction upholds long-standing federal protections for the Everglades.
The camp, which was hastily constructed on a remote airfield in the Big Cypress National Preserve, has faced criticism for environmental damage and harsh conditions, such as overcrowded tents, malfunctioning toilets, and limited access to medical care and legal representation. President Trump praised the facility during a recent visit, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis had announced plans for similar facilities.
State officials promptly filed an appeal, contending that Florida has sole control over the project. However, Williams rejected that claim, noting that the facility was created as a joint effort between state and federal authorities.
