Immigrants detained at Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz facility were held in cramped, phonebooth-sized metal cages that were described as spaces to help them “manage their emotions”, according to findings by a federal Homeland Security watchdog.
An investigation by the Department of Homeland Security’s independent inspector general found that the detention centre failed to meet at least six detention standards, including requirements related to medical care, food, hygiene and environmental health and safety.
Detainees Faced Cramped And Unsanitary Conditions
The watchdog found that showers at the facility were infested with small bugs, while detainees lacked adequate access to safe food and clean water.
Cells reportedly contained a single five-gallon water jug placed next to open toilets. Detainees were also given one plastic cup that they could not clean during their stay.
At least 79 detainees were held in the small metal enclosures between July 17, 2025, and January 18, 2026. Each enclosure provided roughly 18 square feet of space, while national standards require at least 75 square feet per detainee.
Even the facility’s regular cells offered only about 28 square feet per detainee, according to investigators.
Cages Used As ‘Calming Areas’
The small metal enclosures were used as “calming areas”, with detainees kept inside for up to two hours at a time.
According to the report, the spaces were intended to allow detainees to “reflect on their behavior choices, manage their emotions, reduce stress, and practice self-directed behavior”.
Investigators described the use of the cages as unprecedented and said such restrictive spaces were highly unconventional and inconsistent with standards for humane treatment.
Facility Failed To Meet Recreation And Shower Standards
Detainees were able to shower only three days a week, despite federal standards requiring daily access. Inspectors also found insects in the showers, particularly on the ceilings.
Recreation was also limited to one hour, three days a week. Federal standards call for at least one hour of recreation per day, five days a week, or a minimum of six hours across at least four days.
Homeland Security Defends Facility
A Homeland Security spokesperson disputed allegations of poor conditions, saying the facility was “consistent” with standards under previous presidential administrations.
The spokesperson said all detainee facilities were clean and rejected allegations of inhumane conditions or excessive use of force. The facility no longer holds detainees, while the inspector general said its recommendations had been administratively closed.
Alligator Alcatraz Cost $300 Million
The facility was built on the site of a decommissioned airstrip about 40 miles west of Miami as part of efforts to expand detention capacity during the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign.
Florida spent at least $300 million on the 3,000-bed project, which cost more than $1 million a day to operate. The facility closed in July ahead of the hurricane season.
Despite its closure, the detention centre remains the subject of multiple lawsuits, including legal challenges over detainee treatment and environmental requirements.
