Florida Alligator Alcatraz Detention Center Nears Empty After Judge Closure Order

The controversial Florida immigration detention facility known as "Alligator Alcatraz," rapidly constructed in the Everglades to house up to 3,000 undocumented immigrants as part of President Trump's immigration crackdown, is expected to be empty within days. Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie confirmed in an email that detainee numbers have sharply declined and the facility will likely hold zero individuals soon, following a federal judge's order to close the camp within 60 days. Despite the state’s appeal against the closure and federal requests to delay the shutdown due to claims of overcrowding in other detention centers, the facility has not operated near its capacity and detainees have been moved to other sites or deported. Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, whose lawsuit led to the closure order, argue that the facility is unnecessary, especially with plans for another detention center in northern Florida. The facility had drawn widespread criticism for its harsh conditions and legal challenges since opening in early July. Governor Ron DeSantis’s administration continues to oppose the closure, but the practical operation of "Alligator Alcatraz" is winding down rapidly.