Florida Alligator Alcatraz Faces Criticism Over Detention Conditions

The Alligator Alcatraz migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades has drawn bipartisan scrutiny for its conditions, with Democratic lawmakers condemning the facility for overcrowded chain-link cages, limited toilets, and detainees drinking water from a spigot attached to the toilets. Detainees and former guards report severe issues such as relentless mosquitoes, backed-up portable toilets, limited water supply, and flooding from rain, while staff describe challenging working conditions despite relatively high pay. State officials and facility representatives dispute these claims, asserting that plumbing, hygiene, and drinking water access meet standards, although independent inspections have been denied. The Trump administration is promoting the site as a model for expanding immigrant detention capacity nationwide, despite criticisms from Democrats, environmentalists, tribal leaders, and immigration advocates who label the conditions as inhumane and costly. Former guards and detainees have voiced fears about health risks from mosquitoes and safety concerns due to the remote Everglades location. Representative Maxwell Frost highlighted the human impact, emphasizing the large numbers of detainees held in cramped quarters and the distressing reports of detainees claiming U.S. citizenship and calling for help.