<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><span class="section-lead">Alligator Alcatraz, the </span>immigrant detention camp in the Florida Everglades, held detainees in small metal enclosures measuring 4 feet by 4 feet, according to a report from the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. The report describes these conditions as "highly unconventional and does not align with standards for humane treatment." </p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The report, first reported by the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/14/us/alligator-alcatraz-dhs-inspector-general.html"><em>New York Times</em></a>, offers insights into the facility, which was established by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s administration in 2025. At its peak, Alligator Alcatraz housed up to 1,500 detainees amid criticisms regarding treatment, including flooding risks, mosquito infestations, limited access to legal counsel, and food shortages. The facility was closed in June 2026 due to concerns about hurricane season.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The DHS Office of Inspector General conducted an unannounced inspection in January, finding that while the camp met some standards for intake and use of force, it violated others. Specifically, 79 detainees were confined in the metal enclosures for periods ranging from a few minutes to two hours. Staff described these enclosures as "calming areas," but inspectors noted that at least one was used for disciplinary reasons.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The report indicated that detainees were provided only 28 square feet of living space, significantly below the required 75 square feet. During the inspection, officials observed up to 32 detainees in eight cell areas. Recreation was limited to three days a week for one hour, which the report stated could negatively impact detainees' physical and mental health. Detainees reported inadequate access to clean drinking water and were allowed to shower only three times a week, contrary to federal standards requiring daily access.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>“The absence of well-defined standards at detention facilities increases the risk that detainees may not receive appropriate care.”</p></blockquote></figure>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Corene Kendrick, deputy director at the ACLU’s National Prison Project, described the report as "horrifying," stating it confirms previous allegations regarding the conditions at Alligator Alcatraz. Kendrick noted that officials had previously dismissed these claims as exaggerated.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The report highlighted a "lack of clarity" on whether the facility adhered to state or federal detention standards, stating that the absence of well-defined standards increases the risk of inadequate care for detainees.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In response to the report, DHS officials attributed the conditions to the state of Florida, which they claimed maintained authority over daily operations. However, the report noted that ICE personnel were frequently present and federal funding was utilized for the camp's operation. The state Department of Emergency Management did not respond to a request for comment.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Alex Lanfranconi, communications director for the governor’s office, stated that Florida took action in response to what he described as an influx of illegal immigration under the Biden administration, asserting that the facility adhered to federal standards for criminal confinement.</p>