Judge Orders Two-Week Halt To Construction At ‘Alligator Alcatraz’

A federal judge ordered a two-week halt to construction at Florida’s migrant detention center widely known as “Alligator Alcatraz.”

Last month, Democratic state lawmakers described conditions at the migrant detention center as “inhumane” after visiting the site.

The order was issued by U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams after numerous environmental groups, along with the Miccosukee Tribe, requested a temporary injunction to halt the detention center’s construction. The lawsuit argues that the construction is environmentally harmful to the Florida Everglades.

“We’re pleased that the judge saw the urgent need to put a pause on additional construction, and we look forward to advancing our ultimate goal of protecting the unique and imperiled Everglades ecosystem from further damage caused by this mass detention facility,” said Eve Samples, executive director at Friends of the Everglades.

“Alligator Alcatraz” was built following an executive order from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) to address what the governor described as an illegal immigration crisis.

Williams’ order does not include any restrictions on immigration enforcement operations at the facility.

A spokesperson for DeSantis said the order would have no impact on immigration enforcement in Florida.

“Alligator Alcatraz will remain operational, continuing to serve as a force multiplier to enhance deportation efforts,” said spokesperson Alex Lanfranconi in a statement.

Last month, civil rights groups filed a lawsuit alleging that the constitutional rights of the center’s detainees were being violated because they were barred from meeting with lawyers. A hearing in the case is set for Aug. 18.

The migrant detention center also faces a legal challenge alleging that detainees have been denied access to their attorneys.