Cuban reggaeton performer Leamsy Izquierdo, who goes by the stage name La Figura, has raised concerns about the dire conditions at the Florida immigration detention facility known as Alligator Alcatraz. He remains held there following his arrest on criminal charges and subsequent custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
"I've gone four days without a shower. There's no water, no toothpaste, no time outside. We're kept in a wire cage with the lights on 24/7, and the mosquitoes are enormous," Leamsy recounted in a phone call shared on Instagram by Katia Figura and circulated by Cuban influencers.
Legal Troubles and ICE Hold
Born on June 28, 1991, Leamsy's legal issues escalated on July 2 when he was arrested in Miami-Dade County. He was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and simple assault, leading to his transfer to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 1:59 p.m., with bail set at $6,000 ($5,000 for the more serious charge and $1,000 for the lesser one).
Despite being eligible to post bail for his release, an ICE hold has blocked his immediate freedom, as reported by AmericaTeVé. This hold allows federal authorities to keep him detained while they assess his immigration status and consider deportation proceedings.
Harsh Living Conditions and Allegations of Racism
In his phone conversation, La Figura described the facility as being "like less than two degrees. Everyone's in T-shirts, shivering, and shouting. It's hell. There are no Latino officers, just African American kids or highly racist women," he claimed, further highlighting the lack of medical care and respect for detainees' basic rights.
The musician emphasized that approximately 400 individuals are experiencing similar conditions, all confined without access to natural light, adequate nutrition, or basic hygiene.
Community Outrage and Broader Implications
Leamsy's revelations have sparked outrage and concern among his fans and the Cuban community closely monitoring the plight of migrants detained at Alligator Alcatraz. His case has fueled the ongoing debate about abuses in detention centers and the treatment of migrants involved in legal proceedings or subjected to ICE holds.
Questions about Detention Conditions and Immigration Policies
What are the conditions like at Alligator Alcatraz detention center?
According to Leamsy "La Figura," the conditions are inhumane, with no access to water, toothpaste, or outdoor time. Detainees are kept in wire cages with constant lighting, facing extreme temperatures and inadequate facilities.
Why is Leamsy unable to pay bail for his release?
Although Leamsy could post bail, his release is hindered by an ICE hold, which allows federal authorities to detain him while they review his immigration status and potential deportation.
How has the community reacted to Leamsy's situation?
Leamsy's allegations have caused alarm and indignation among his supporters and the Cuban community, prompting discussions about the treatment of detained migrants and the conditions within detention centers.