Florida's Immigration Jail: A Disturbing Look Inside

In Florida, two immigration detention centers have come under fire for alleged human rights violations. The Everglades facility, nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz, " and Miami's Krome processing center are accused of subjecting detainees to harsh conditions. At "Alligator Alcatraz, " detainees reported being placed in a small metal cage, exposed to the elements, for punishment. This cage, called "the box, " is used for minor or even non-existent offenses. One detainee shared that two cellmates were punished for trying to help them get medication. Another person spent a whole day in the box. The conditions at these facilities are reportedly dire. Detainees face unsanitary living spaces, limited access to showers, and poor quality food and water. Medical care is inconsistent, putting individuals at risk. Moreover, detainees are always shackled when outside their cages. Krome processing center is also under scrutiny. Amnesty International found overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and alarming disciplinary practices. Violence and racist abuse by guards are common. One Amnesty staffer witnessed a guard slam a metal door against a detainee's injured hand. The operation of "Alligator Alcatraz" is unusual. It's the first state-run immigration jail supporting federal operations. It operates outside federal oversight, making it difficult for families or legal representatives to track detainees. This lack of tracking can lead to incommunicado detention. Amnesty International has called for the closure of "Alligator Alcatraz" and an end to cooperation with federal immigration authorities. They also urge the Trump administration to halt the criminalization of migration and mass detention. The findings highlight a human rights crisis that demands immediate action.