Amnesty International Reports Widespread Abuse at El Paso ICE Detention Center

A series of reports by Amnesty International reveal severe human rights violations at the El Paso Service Processing Center, highlighting systemic mistreatment, arbitrary detention, denial of due process, and inadequate living conditions for migrants, particularly Venezuelans targeted under the Alien Enemies Act. Detainees reported physical abuse by guards, spoiled food, unsanitary conditions, poor medical care, and a lack of access to legal representation, which has worsened following funding cuts to local legal aid organizations. The reports criticize the Trump administration's immigration crackdown as inhumane and unlawful, emphasizing the use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to classify Venezuelan migrants as gang-affiliated and subject them to harsh detention and expedited deportation. In response to these findings, Representative Gabe Vasquez introduced an updated Humane Accountability Act to mandate Department of Homeland Security reporting on detention conditions, including abuses and detainee complaints, aiming to increase congressional oversight. Amnesty International calls for a federal investigation and a review of immigration enforcement practices, while ICE maintains it prioritizes detainees' health and safety. Local political figures have expressed skepticism about some allegations, but the reports underscore widespread fear, frustration, and uncertainty among detainees about their legal status and treatment.