Alcatraz “spin-off” fails after 'Inhumane Conditions' revealed

Written by Ayla Dugan

Florida Judge Williams at a hearing concerning the closure of the detention facility

The Trump Administration and Florida state officials are fighting back against Judge William's decision to close down the problematic facility known as “Alligator Alcatraz”. Located in the Florida Everglades, and built in just 8 days the detainment center for immigrants promised many things it couldn’t live up too.

“Alligator Alcatraz” was built as a temporary facility for immigrants. This facility was built upon a  request from the government once the request from the government came in they started construction on the facility at the Dade-Collier training and transition airport and in a matter of 8 days Alligator Alcatraz was born. The facility was constructed  to house up to 3,000 immigrants “with a possibility to hold more”, says CNN. 

Since the facility opened on July 1st 2025 activists, families, and legal advocates of the 700 immigrants who immediately were sent there have been complaining about the conditions and fighting for the closure of the facility.  

According to an article by NBC , Detainees claim the conditions are horrendous, they claim the units are cage-like and filled with mosquitoes. Detainees also claim that the fluorescent lights are constantly on. There are also claims that there is a lack of food at the facility and medical treatment (for chronic illness). 

An inside look at the living arrangements for the detainees at the facility

The Trump administration is pushing for Alligator Alcatraz to stay open despite the backlash the facility is receiving. The facility was also built for short term use, and not as long term facility.  Since the opening of the facility the president has been pushing for more and more detainees to be put into the facility and delaying the closure. 

The Trump administration is pushing for the facility to stay open and continue to operate but the Florida judge, Judge Williams continues to order for the facility's closure due to the conditions. As of September 2,2025 Alligator Alcatraz is set to close within the next few days.