Indiana Prison Begins Holding First ICE Detainees Amid Controversy

The Miami Correctional Facility in northern Indiana began housing Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees this week, taking in 15 people Wednesday and expecting up to 100 by the end of the week as part of a two‑year federal agreement that could provide up to 1,000 beds. The contract pays Indiana $291 per detainee per day and guarantees payment for a minimum of 450 beds, equating to at least $79 million over two years (up to about $213 million if the facility is filled). Indiana approved roughly $15.8 million in upgrades to prepare the prison, and officials say some federal reimbursements will be used to raise correctional officer pay to about $28 an hour and to help recruit staff. State officials and the IDOC say ICE detainees will be housed separately from convicted inmates. The plan has drawn public opposition, including prayer vigils and criticism over the “Speedway Slammer” nickname (which prompted IndyCar to object), with opponents calling the arrangement unjust and inhumane.