A recent investigation by The Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times reveals that over 55% of migrants held at the controversial "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center in the heart of the Florida Everglades are from Guatemala, Mexico, and Cuba. According to official records accessed by these newspapers, the majority of the more than 700 migrants detained there are of Latin American descent.
The data shows that a staggering 95% of the detainees hail from Latin American countries, though individuals from more than 40 nations are represented. The most common nationalities are Guatemala (22%), Mexico (21.5%), and Cuba (11.6%). Other nationalities include Honduras (9.5%), the Dominican Republic (5.1%), Nicaragua (4.9%), Colombia (4.8%), Venezuela (4.5%), El Salvador (3.1%), and Haiti (2.3%). Additional countries of origin include Brazil, Jamaica, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, among others.
The report highlights that over 250 detainees face only immigration violations, with no history of violent crimes. However, about one-third have some form of criminal record, though the documents do not detail the nature of the charges, which range from illegal reentry to serious offenses like attempted murder.
Criticism and Human Rights Concerns
Nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz," the detention center has faced harsh criticism from Democratic lawmakers, human rights organizations, and religious leaders. Following a recent visit, a group of Florida congress members reported that migrants are "caged, packed like sardines," enduring extreme temperatures, oppressive humidity, and shortages of drinkable water and edible food.
The Archdiocese of Miami condemned the facility, labeling it a "corrosive and inappropriate solution" that undermines human dignity. This report emerges as the Trump Administration announces plans to construct five new mega detention centers in Republican states, modeled after the Florida facility. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that discussions have begun with local governments to replicate the "Alligator Alcatraz" infrastructure.
Press access to the center remains restricted, fueling further criticism regarding transparency and potential human rights violations against the migrants.
Key Questions on Migrant Detention
What percentage of detainees at "Alligator Alcatraz" are from Latin America?
Approximately 95% of the detainees are from Latin American countries.
Which three countries have the highest representation among detainees?
The countries with the highest representation are Guatemala (22%), Mexico (21.5%), and Cuba (11.6%).
What are some of the criticisms against the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center?
Critics have pointed out the inhumane conditions, such as overcrowding, extreme temperatures, and lack of basic necessities, which undermine the dignity of migrants.