This week, the Florida government inaugurated a new immigrant detention facility, named the "Deportation Depot," on the grounds of the former Baker Correctional Institution located in Sanderson, approximately 43 miles west of Jacksonville. The center, which currently holds 117 individuals as of Tuesday, initially accommodates up to 1,500 detainees, with the potential to expand to 2,000 beds. During a press briefing, Governor Ron DeSantis stated there is "demand" and he is "confident it will fill up."
Transforming a Prison for Immigration Purposes
Previously closed in 2021 due to staffing shortages and a declining inmate population, the prison was swiftly adapted in just a few weeks to serve as an immigrant detention center. According to DeSantis, "A large portion of the facility was vacant. It was a ready-made opportunity." Florida's Attorney General, James Uthmeier, told Fox News that repurposing this prison represents substantial savings for the state: "We'll utilize every available space. It will be filled quickly and put to good use."
The conversion cost is estimated at six million dollars, significantly less than the over 245 million allocated for the state's first immigration center, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," constructed in the Everglades.
Legal Context and Reactions
The opening of the "Deportation Depot" comes after a federal appeals court suspended a judge's decision to shut down "Alligator Alcatraz." Judge Kathleen Williams had ordered the dismantling of the center following a lawsuit filed by environmental groups and the Miccosukee tribe, which alleged violations of federal law due to a lack of environmental review in the protected wetlands area.
Nonetheless, a three-judge panel from the Atlanta Appeals Court voted 2-1 to block that order, allowing the Everglades facility to continue operating while litigation proceeds. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that these detention centers will form part of a state network with federal funding support.
In July, the White House announced a $608 million investment to expand the infrastructure of immigration detention centers nationwide.
Criticism and Concerns
The system's expansion has faced strong criticism from human rights organizations, particularly over reported conditions at "Alligator Alcatraz," where lawyers have cited flooding, pressure on detainees to sign deportation orders without legal counsel, and lack of access to essential services.
DeSantis promised that the new center will provide the same services, but no oversight mechanisms or guarantees of legal representation for detained immigrants have been detailed.
The immigrant detention center known as "Alligator Alcatraz" in Florida's Everglades will remain operational after a federal appeals court blocked a Miami judge's closure order this Thursday.
FAQs on Florida's Immigrant Detention Centers
What is the capacity of the "Deportation Depot" in Florida?
The "Deportation Depot" initially holds up to 1,500 detainees, with the potential to expand to 2,000 beds.
Why was the "Alligator Alcatraz" center's closure order blocked?
A federal appeals court in Atlanta blocked the closure order to allow the center to continue operating while legal proceedings are ongoing.
What concerns have been raised about Florida's immigration centers?
Human rights groups have criticized the centers for poor conditions, including flooding, pressure on detainees to sign deportation orders without legal counsel, and lack of access to basic services.