DHS Opens Immigration Detention Facility at Angola Prison, Louisiana

The Department of Homeland Security, under the Trump administration, has opened a new immigration detention facility within the Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola), known for its maximum-security status and harsh conditions. The facility, referred to as "Camp 47" or "Camp 57," is designed to house the most dangerous undocumented migrants charged with violent crimes, with officials emphasizing it will hold only male detainees considered the "worst of the worst." Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem highlighted the facility's role in deterring illegal immigration and protecting public safety, framing it as part of a broader crackdown on criminal illegal aliens. The detention center includes amenities such as attorneys, hearing rooms, and a law library, and operates at a lower cost compared to other similar facilities nationwide. This move follows the closure of a similar Florida facility and aligns with the Trump administration’s efforts to expand detention capacity, strengthen immigration enforcement, and deport criminal aliens, despite criticism from Democrats concerning due process and detention conditions. The collaboration between federal and state authorities demonstrates a concerted effort to target violent offenders and enhance immigration law enforcement.