Federal Judge Orders Disclosure of Legal Custody at Florida ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Detention Center

A federal judge in Florida has ordered state and federal officials to release documents clarifying which government agencies or private contractors have legal authority over the immigration detention center known as "Alligator Alcatraz," located in the Florida Everglades. The order responds to a civil rights lawsuit filed by detainees and backed by immigration law firms, alleging constitutional violations such as barred legal access, indefinite detention without charges, and canceled bond hearings. The facility, hastily constructed on a remote airstrip, has faced criticism for its secretive operation and unclear jurisdictional control since its July opening. While officials have requested limiting disclosures to agreements between ICE and three Florida agencies, the judge ruled some detainees' requests for broader information too extensive. Environmental groups have also filed a separate lawsuit challenging the detention center's construction for failing to comply with environmental laws, with a hearing scheduled soon. The Archdiocese of Miami has noted it recently held the first Mass at the facility, highlighting ongoing community attention.