The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a 33-page report on Monday detailing an unannounced inspection of a state-run immigration detention facility in Florida. The report, which focused on the recently closed site known as "Alligator Alcatraz," found that detainees were held in "cramped conditions" and "highly unconventional" metal enclosures. The facility, located on an airstrip in the Everglades, was operated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management and housed individuals in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Alligator Alcatraz was closed in June after previously being presented by Trump administration officials as a model for expanding detention capacity to increase deportations. While federal and state officials defended the site, it faced opposition from Democratic lawmakers, advocacy groups, environmental organizations, and a Native American tribe. The OIG conducted its inspection earlier this year to evaluate whether the facility met appropriate safety and health standards for individuals accused of violating federal immigration laws.
According to the report, housing units provided 28 square feet of living space per person when at capacity, which is less than the 75 square feet required by Florida state jail standards. Detainees were housed in soft-sided tents divided into dormitory-style units with metal fencing and bunk beds, but no common areas. The OIG stated these living conditions "may harm detainees' physical and mental health." Inspectors also noted that detainees received recreation time three days per week and showers three days per week, which falls below ICE standards of at least five days of recreation and Florida standards of daily showers.
The report specifically highlighted the use of "small metal enclosures" measuring 52 inches by 52 inches, totaling 18.7 square feet. OIG records show 79 detainees were held in these units between July 2025 and January 2026 for durations of up to two hours. While facility staff referred to them as "calming areas" and stated detainees used them voluntarily to seek solitude, the OIG reported at least one instance where an enclosure appeared to be used as a disciplinary tool for 26 minutes. The watchdog concluded these enclosures were "unprecedented" among ICE facilities and did not align with "standards for humane treatment."
In a statement on Monday, a DHS spokesperson defended the facility, stating that Alligator Alcatraz was "consistent with the same federal detention standards employed by previous administrations" and that all facilities are clean. The spokesperson denied all allegations of inhumane conditions or excessive use of force. Because the facility is no longer in operation, the OIG closed its recommendations regarding the removal of the metal enclosures and the improvement of living space.