Closure of Alligator Alcatraz Announced by Governor DeSantis
Florida’s Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has confirmed the shutdown of the Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention facility.
During a press conference on Thursday, alongside White House Border Secretary Tom Homan, DeSantis provided insights about the facility located in the Florida Everglades. He remarked that it has “played its role” in assisting federal authorities in deporting thousands of undocumented individuals who entered the United States.
“Immigration enforcement has been a state priority since I became governor. We launched Alligator Alcatraz to address the Biden administration’s failures in immigration enforcement and strengthen the Trump administration’s efforts to restart domestic enforcement,” DeSantis stated.
The Alligator Alcatraz facility, which began operations in July 2025, was always meant to be a temporary solution, particularly during a time when there was a shortage of federal detention space following the Biden administration’s policies.
DeSantis reported that the location has been instrumental in deporting approximately 21,000 individuals and has prevented the release of criminal immigrants with extensive criminal backgrounds into local communities.
“These are individuals who, for the most part, would have been released into Florida society if we hadn’t had this facility,” he emphasized.
He added, “The detainees who were here remain in federal custody. Demobilization efforts are underway at this facility. There is no doubt that this mission has enhanced safety in Florida. … It has undoubtedly saved lives.”
At the press conference, Homan recognized DeSantis’ contributions, highlighting Florida’s continuing significance to federal immigration enforcement through other detention facilities that remain operational.
“Governor DeSantis has done an excellent job and will keep working to make this country safe again,” Homan remarked. “This is just a continuation of our partnership.”
