First Migrants Arrive at Florida's Alligator Alcatraz Detention Center

This Thursday morning, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) bus made its way into Florida's new immigrant detention center in the Everglades, marking the official arrival of the first detainees at the facility dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz" by the government. Local media confirmed that, despite previous official announcements, the initial transfer of prisoners occurred today rather than on Wednesday as initially planned. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier had earlier stated, "Alligator Alcatraz will register hundreds of illegal immigrants tonight," referring to Wednesday. However, it was only this Thursday that their arrival was verified. Late yesterday, vans and vehicles were also seen entering the facility. At the entrance, a sign reads "Alligator Alcatraz," the moniker given by the government to this establishment.

The Symbolism and Design of a Prison in the Swamp

Situated on a remote airstrip in the heart of the Everglades, enveloped by alligators and marshlands, the center is a stark development. According to Governor Ron DeSantis, construction was completed in just eight days over a 10-mile stretch and includes:

• An initial capacity for 3,000 detainees, with plans for expansion to 5,000.
• Over 28,000 feet of razor wire.
• More than 200 security cameras.
• 400 security personnel.

The state government, in collaboration with the federal 287(g) program, which allows state agents to question and detain immigrants for potential deportation by ICE, built the facility. President Donald Trump, alongside DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, visited the center on Tuesday, promoting it as a model for national replication. Trump stated, "Soon, this facility will house the most threatening migrants, some of the cruelest individuals on the planet," calling the site's name "fitting". He added, "The only real exit is deportation," and suggested that the National Guard could serve as immigration judges to expedite removals.

Controversy Over Inhumane Conditions and Environmental Impact

The project has drawn substantial criticism from civil, environmental, and tribal organizations. During the facility’s opening, hundreds of protesters gathered outside, holding signs demanding humane treatment for immigrants and denouncing the ecological impact on an area within the Big Cypress National Preserve. Among the most vocal critics is James Osceola, leader of the Miccosukee tribe, who emphasized, "For us, our medicine is in this land, and we feel it has protected us, so we must protect it." He also voiced concerns about frequent flooding, particularly after Tuesday’s rain, which leaked into one of the tents. Despite these warnings, state spokeswoman Stephanie Hartman assured that contractors "tightened the seams at the base of the structures" to prevent future leaks and that the complex was fortified to withstand Category 2 hurricanes.

A Political Strategy Aimed at Deterrence and Fundraising

Federal and state officials have promoted the center as a deterrent against migration. By likening it to the federal prison of Alcatraz, they aim to send a clear message: conditions will be harsh, encouraging undocumented migrants to leave "voluntarily." This narrative has been accompanied by a media and fundraising campaign by the Florida Republican Party, which sells T-shirts and promotional items bearing the center's name. A meme has even circulated showing the complex surrounded by razor wire, "guarded" by alligators wearing ICE caps.

What’s Next?

The DHS and ICE are still handling the logistical details of detainee transfers, but Florida has confirmed that the infrastructure is ready for operation. Over the coming days, the center is expected to increase from operating between 500 to 1,000 beds to reaching 5,000 by early July. Meanwhile, criticism continues to mount. Concerns about the legality of using soldiers as judges, the suitability of the site for human habitation, and challenging climatic and ecological conditions remain hotly debated topics.