New Immigration Detention Facility Opens in Louisiana
The recently opened Louisiana Immigration Customs Facility, referred to as the “Louisiana Lockup,” is now accommodating illegal immigrants within Louisiana prisons.
Angola Prison, notorious for its severe conditions, has previously been labeled “the bloodiest prison in the South.” According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the facility currently houses 51 undocumented immigrants.
This prison gained notoriety in the 1960s due to frequent violence and spent the 1970s engaging in legal battles over its harsh treatment of inmates, which ultimately led to some reforms.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is determined to maintain operations at this facility, waiting for a new detention center in Florida, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.”
“The Department of Homeland Security is complying with the order and relocating detainees to other facilities. We’re excited to observe the company’s efforts to integrate with global standards,” stated Nathaniel Madden, a DHS spokesperson.
Louisiana officials are collaborating with DHS and ICE to allocate parts of the facility for temporary housing, expanding its capacity to 416 beds.
In an effort to increase its resources, ICE aims to grow its current capacity from 41,500 to 80,000 new detention beds as part of a broader effort initiated during President Donald Trump’s administration. Accomplishing this is dependent upon the passage of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which proposes to allocate around $75 billion over four years.
The Louisiana Lockup is the latest in a series of renovated facilities designed for ICE detention, following those in Nebraska and Indiana.
New arrivals are placed in sections of the prison known as “Camp J” — characterized by isolated and restrictive living conditions.
“We are pleased to announce our partnership with Louisiana to increase our detention space,” said DHS Director Christa Noem. “Thanks to Governor Landry for his cooperation in ensuring we remove the worst offenders in our country. If you’re illegally present in America, you might find yourself at any of these facilities, including CECOT, Cornhusker Clink, or Louisiana Lockup. It’s wise to avoid arrests by utilizing the CBP Home App.”
“Illegal aliens should consider that Louisiana Lockup is where their time in America could end,” remarked Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.
“This facility allows ICE to securely detain some high-risk offenders, including rapists, drug traffickers, and gang members, which is essential for protecting our communities. It’s all about enhancing American security and partnerships,” he added.
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