The Florida detention center holds hundreds and could expand to 3,000 detainees|@WhiteHouse|X
A federal judge has temporarily stopped construction at Florida’s immigrant detention center—nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz”—for two weeks while reviewing potential environmental law violations.
The facility, built rapidly in the Everglades on an old airstrip, holds hundreds and could expand to 3,000 detainees.
Judge Kathleen Williams barred further paving, lighting, fencing, or new buildings, citing risks to wetlands.
The legal order doesn’t restrict immigration and law enforcement from continuing work at the center.
Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe argue the site threatens protected species and undermines restoration efforts.
The state claims the facility is under its control, but the judge noted it operates as a joint state-federal venture.
A second lawsuit claims detainees are denied legal rights. Hearings on both cases continue this month.