All detainees were transferred out of Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center between June 16 and June 18, citing safety concerns related to the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, according to ICE and state officials [1, 2, 3]. The facility, located within Florida’s Big Cypress Natural Preserve in the Everglades, was opened in July 2025 and operated by the state [1, 2, 3]. It cost taxpayers roughly $1.2 million daily to run [1].
The center, promoted by former President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis, has faced intense criticism over harsh conditions. Reports from Amnesty International and others detailed alleged human rights abuses, including detainees being shackled in small metal cages and exposed to contaminated water [1, 3]. The facility’s location also raised opposition from indigenous groups such as the Miccosukee and Seminole nations due to the impact on their lands [2].
Some detainees have been moved to other ICE facilities, including the Deportation Depot in Sanderson, Florida [3]. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, Lauren Bis, emphasized safety: “For the safety of the illegal alien detainees, we transferred them to other facilities” as the six-month hurricane season started in June [1, 2, 3]. Governor DeSantis noted that no permanent structures were built at the site because it was intended as a temporary facility [1].
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier warned about the Everglades’ dangers, saying, "If people get out, there’s not much waiting for them other than alligators and pythons. Nowhere to go. Nowhere to hide" [2]. Amy Godshall, an ACLU attorney, called the transfer “an important step” but urged the closure of the facility, stating, "The state and federal government must permanently close this facility and commit to never detaining people there again" [3].
It remains unclear whether Alligator Alcatraz will reopen. Officials have not confirmed if the closure is permanent [2, 3]. The facility’s future will likely be clarified in coming weeks.
