Nebraska Announces New Immigration Detention Center
Officials in Nebraska have shared plans to establish a new immigration detention facility in the state’s southwest region, referred to as the “Cornhusker Clink.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this via a press release, indicating that Nebraska is collaborating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to accommodate detained individuals identified as “criminal illegal aliens.”
This development comes on the heels of similar temporary detention facilities being set up, like Florida’s “Alligator Alcatraz” and the “Deportation Depot,” along with Indiana’s “Speedway Slammer.”
The operation is a joint effort between the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services and ICE, aimed at increasing ICE’s detention capacity by adding 280 beds at a minimum-security prison work camp known as the Work Ethic Camp in McCook, Nebraska.
Rob Jeffreys, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director, noted that the 186 inmates currently at the McCook facility would be moved to other state locations in the coming months to clear space for the arriving detainees.
“Today, we’re announcing a new partnership with the state of Nebraska to expand detention bed space by 280 beds,” stated DHS official Kristi Noem. She expressed gratitude to Governor Pillen for his collaboration in efforts to remove serious offenders from the country. “If you’re here illegally, you may find yourself in Nebraska’s Cornhusker Clink. It’s best to avoid arrest by using the CBP Home App to self-deport,” she added.
Governor Jim Pillen (R-Neb.) responded positively to Noem’s announcement on social media.
“This is about ensuring the safety of Nebraskans and all Americans. As the Trump Administration seeks to secure our borders, Nebraska stands fully supportive. I am thankful for the chance to work alongside Noem and dedicated law enforcement officials at DHS and ICE,” he stated.
The DHS explained that the construction of this new facility was made possible due to increased funding for ICE and deportation initiatives, which were part of Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill.”
Pillen mentioned that the Nebraska National Guard will provide logistical support for the facility, involving around 20 soldiers in its operation.
This new detention center represents the ongoing expansion of temporary facilities designed for housing undocumented individuals as part of President Trump’s aggressive deportation strategy. Reportedly, as of June, ICE was holding over 56,000 detainees—the highest figure since 2019.
Additionally, other facilities like “Alligator Alcatraz” are currently facing legal objections. Environmental groups, along with the Miccosukee Tribe, have brought lawsuits against the construction of this facility, resulting in a federal judge ordering a temporary pause on construction for review.
Despite these legal challenges, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis (R) remains committed to continuing with the development of the “Deportation Depot,” intended to be in northern Florida, with a capacity for 1,300 detainees, which could expand to 2,000 beds.
