Federal Judge Halts Construction at Controversial Alligator Alcatraz Detention Center

A federal judge in Miami has issued a temporary halt to the construction activities at the contentious immigrant detention facility known as Alligator Alcatraz, located in the heart of the Everglades. The order, handed down by Judge Kathleen Williams, will be in effect for 14 days as allegations regarding the project's violation of federal environmental laws are debated, according to The New York Times.

Although the center can continue housing detainees for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), construction workers are prohibited from adding new fill, paving, or building additional infrastructure during the restriction period. Judge Williams noted that a written order would follow later in the day.

The ruling follows a request made on July 17 by environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, who argue that the facility jeopardizes protected wetlands and threatens years of investment in environmental restoration. “The construction of ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ infringes on the sovereign rights of the Miccosukee and endangers a significant cultural and ecological landscape. It is both illegal and immoral,” stated Judith LeBlanc, executive director of the Native Organizers Alliance.

The plaintiffs claim the center violates the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

Conversely, Florida's legal representative, Jesse Panuccio, argued that the construction and operation fall under state jurisdiction, making the law inapplicable. Nevertheless, Judge Williams pointed out that the project is “at least” a collaboration between state and federal authorities.