Florida’s New Immigration Detention Facility Announced
Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis recently shared plans for a second immigration detention center, called the “Department Depot.” This comes after the completion of the previously announced “Alligator Alcatraz.”
According to DeSantis, this new facility will be situated at the Baker Correctional Facility, located approximately 43 miles from Jacksonville. The center is projected to hold 1,300 detainees, with the potential to increase to 2,000 in the future.
“There’s a demand for this,” DeSantis mentioned during a press conference, expressing confidence that this need will be met.
“We have approved it and will soon be opening this new illegal immigration detention, disposal and deportation facility in northern Florida,” he stated.
In a recent tweet, DeSantis said, “It’s great to be in Sanderson today to announce that Florida’s new deportation depot will work with federal authorities to begin housing, detention, and disposal of illegal aliens for deportation.” He referenced that “Alligator Alcatraz” is already operational in South Florida.
The budget for constructing the new facility is estimated at around $6 million, which DeSantis noted is considerably less than what was spent on “Alligator Alcatraz.”
“This part of the facility is not being used for state prisoners. It gives us the ability to enter and get up quickly and get up cheaply,” DeSantis explained.
The site was chosen because it offers convenient access to Lake City Gateway Airport, facilitating deportation flights.
Reports suggest the facility could be operational in just a few weeks. Additionally, DeSantis mentioned that the Florida State Guard may be involved, along with state contractors, if needed.
However, the establishment of “Alligator Alcatraz” faced obstacles. A US District Judge recently issued a temporary restraining order to stop further construction, prompted by legal actions from environmental organizations and the Mikcauchy tribe. They argue that the facility was built without the essential environmental assessments, potentially harming fragile wetlands and sacred lands, including habitats for endangered species like the Florida Panther.
DeSantis has indicated intentions to appeal this ruling, underlining the state’s commitment to uphold federal immigration policies.
