Federal Judge Intervenes in “Alligator Alcatraz” Detention Center Case

A federal judge in South Florida has overridden the efforts of the Trump administration concerning the contentious “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center. Judge Kathleen Williams of the Miami US District Court denied a request from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to pause her previous order, which bans new detentions at the facility and mandates some parts of it to be demolished within 60 days.

According to a DHS source, the Everglades facility was in the process of expanding to potentially hold up to 4,000 detainees. Currently, however, the detainee population sits at just 100.

DHS attorneys have been seeking an injunction against Williams’ ruling, arguing it hinders the administration’s capacity to manage illegal immigration.

In her decision, Williams, appointed by President Barack Obama, stated that the government had not provided any substantial new evidence regarding the risks associated with the detainee population or the necessity for the facility’s location. She emphasized that halting operations does not obstruct immigration enforcement objectives.

Environmental and civil rights organizations, alongside local tribes, have filed several lawsuits demanding the closure of the detention center. They argue that proper environmental assessments of the surrounding wetlands, endangered species, and tribal resources have not been conducted. The lawsuit also contends that the facility’s operations could jeopardize billions in environmental restoration efforts.

Williams found that the government had violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by failing to follow the required review process, leading to a pause in construction work that involved fencing, lighting, and other essential infrastructure.

The facility, located at a former airport within the national park, was constructed rapidly—in just eight days—and opened on July 1st, under emergency protocols enacted by Governor Ron DeSantis.

Williams noted that substantial evidence had been presented by plaintiffs, highlighting potential ongoing and future harm to the surrounding environment and wildlife.

At a press conference, DeSantis reiterated the state’s commitment to the initiative, stating, “We’re prepared to assist and will continue our mission, which is vital for Florida.”

Following the ruling, DHS officials criticized Williams, labeling her an “activist judge” while asserting that they have complied with her orders and are relocating detainees to other facilities.

A representative for the plaintiffs did not respond to a request for comment.