A federal judge in Miami has rejected the Department of Homeland Security’s effort to pause the ordered shutdown of the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” detention facility while their appeal moves forward. The ruling requires the center to stop accepting new detainees and begin dismantling infrastructure within 60 days—a decision based on legal violations of environmental review requirements.
Situated in Florida’s protected Everglades, the facility was accused of endangering wetlands, harming wildlife, and disregarding the rights of local indigenous communities. Lawsuits brought by environmental organizations and the Miccosukee Tribe led to the court’s initial mandate to shutter the site.
Though already opened earlier this summer and housing as many as 2,000 detainees—with a planned capacity of 4,000—the center now holds just around 100 individuals. State authorities are facilitating their transfer as part of the judge’s compliance requirements. The shutdown is expected to cost the state up to $218 million, including potential dismantling and renovation expenses.
Environmental advocates have hailed the decision a victory for conservation and legal accountability. Meanwhile, DHS has expressed frustration, calling the judge’s ruling politically motivated and arguing it hampers immigration enforcement objectives.