Florida to Close Controversial Alligator Alcatraz Migrant Detention Facility by June

Florida will shutter its controversial Alligator Alcatraz migrant detention facility by early June, according to reports from The New York Times and CNN affiliate WFOR. Vendors at the site were informed on Tuesday that detainees will be removed by the beginning of next month, with the center scheduled for dismantling in the following weeks.

The facility is located deep within the Florida Everglades at the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport. While Republican leaders originally touted the site as a key component of a broader immigration crackdown, its operations have been plagued by a year of legal challenges, high costs, and allegations of inhumane conditions.

Governor Ron DeSantis acknowledged the upcoming closure during recent remarks, noting that the facility was always intended to be a temporary measure. DeSantis stated that even if operations ended immediately, the state could say the facility served its purpose. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security issued a statement denying reports that it pressured Florida to close the site, describing the state as a valuable partner in immigration enforcement.

As of early April, the facility held approximately 1,400 people. It remains unclear where the detainees will be relocated, though DeSantis suggested they might be moved to federal facilities as the airport returns to normal operations.

Since its opening last summer, Alligator Alcatraz has faced intense criticism from Democratic lawmakers, immigrant rights advocates, environmentalists, and local tribal groups. Visitors to the site reported migrants being held in cages and subjected to extreme heat and insect infestations. While officials from Immigration and Customs Enforcement defended the facilitys standards, multiple lawsuits were filed regarding access to legal counsel and basic living conditions.

Despite overcoming some legal hurdles in appellate court, the rising costs and ongoing public pressure appear to have led to the final decision to close the remote detention center.

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