Serious concerns have been raised about the treatment of detainees at a remote immigration facility in Florida, with new allegations pointing to possible violence and rights violations.
The claims, which are part of a recent federal court filing, have brought national attention to a detention center informally known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” While the accusations are yet to be proven, they have sparked debate about conditions inside such facilities and the rights of those being held.
What Are the Allegations?
According to a court filing submitted by immigration attorney Katherine Blankenship, detainees at the Everglades-based detention centre faced excessive force from guards. The issue reportedly began on April 2, when detainees noticed that phone lines suddenly stopped working.
These phone lines were said to be the only way detainees could contact their lawyers and family members. When the communication system failed, detainees protested. The filing claims that this protest led to a strong and possibly violent response from the facility staff.
Details of the Reported Incident
Two detainees, Raiko Lopez Morffi and Lazaro Hernandez Galban, shared their accounts with their lawyer. They described how a situation quickly turned aggressive when a guard allegedly hit another detainee.
According to the filing, Morffi was then thrown to the ground and beaten by multiple officers. He reportedly suffered injuries to his shoulder and arm and was also kicked in the head. It is further claimed that an officer pressed a knee against his neck while restraining him.
Photographs presented as evidence are said to show visible bruises on Morffi during a video call held on April 10.
Use of Pepper Spray and Other Claims
The filing also alleges that guards used pepper spray on detainees who were kept in a confined holding area. It is claimed that some officers were not wearing identification, which raises further concerns.
One older detainee reportedly lost consciousness after experiencing breathing problems due to the spray. Following this, detainees are said to have barricaded themselves inside the area to avoid further harm.
Response From Authorities
The facility is officially managed by the Florida Division of Emergency Management. So far, the department has not publicly responded to the allegations.
At the same time, both the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have declined to comment, mentioning that the matter is currently under legal review.
Background of “Alligator Alcatraz”
The detention centre, built on a former airstrip in the Florida Everglades, has been in the spotlight since it opened. It was developed under the leadership of Ron DeSantis.
During a visit, Donald Trump highlighted the location’s isolation, surrounded by swamps and wildlife, suggesting it would discourage escape attempts. Because of this unique setting, the facility earned the nickname “Alligator Alcatraz.”
Concerns Raised by Experts
Human rights advocates and experts have raised concerns about the conditions inside the facility. Some have compared it to older detention systems known for poor treatment and lack of proper oversight.
Author Andrea Pitzer is among those who have warned about possible systemic issues, including abuse and limited accountability within such centres.
Legal and Rights Issues
The court filing also highlights other serious concerns beyond physical violence. It claims that detainees are often denied access to personal mail and sometimes miss important immigration court hearings due to communication problems.
Attorney Katherine Blankenship argues that these restrictions could violate basic constitutional rights. She says that limiting access to communication makes it harder for detainees to speak with their lawyers and defend their cases properly.
A federal judge has already stepped in, ordering authorities to ensure better access to legal communication. The order requires at least one working telephone for every 25 detainees, allowing confidential calls with legal representatives.
