Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced plans to establish a second immigration detention facility in the state, even after the recent opening of what some are calling “Crocodile Alcatraz.”
The proposed site, Baker Correctional Facility, is located about 43 miles west of Jacksonville. This initiative follows the launch of the “Wannial Catraz” facility in the Everglades just weeks earlier.
The construction of these facilities has been influenced by former President Trump’s stringent policies on illegal immigration. Trump visited the initial center last month alongside Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem.
DeSantis emphasized the demand for such facilities, describing the new center as a “deportation depot.” He noted that, while the current site has 1,300 beds, plans are underway to add at least 700 more, with costs potentially reaching $6 million.
There are several questions regarding the new facility, including ongoing legal challenges from a federal judge against “Crocodile Alcatraz.” Officials are also reviewing whether private contractors or government agencies have the authority to detain individuals and enforce immigration laws, as well as ensuring compliance with federal environmental regulations.
Previously, the governor expressed his desire for Florida to serve as a “power multiplier” for deportations. He mentioned, “I just sit there because I don’t want to be where illegals are stored. I want to be where illegals are here, but there is an aggressive disposal and an aggressive deportation schedule.”
Noem indicated that the Trump administration is discussing similar projects with other Republican governors. Although details about other potential locations are not yet clear, DHS announced a collaboration with Indiana to construct the “Speedway Slammer,” situated about 65 miles north of Indianapolis.
Recently, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released a grant program to support states in building detention centers.
