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More than 55% of the migrants detained at "Alligator Alcatraz" —the controversial detention center opened in the heart of the Everglades, Florida— come from Guatemala, Mexico, and Cuba, according to a joint investigation by the newspapers The Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times.
The report, based on official records accessed by both media outlets, confirms that the majority of the more than 700 migrants held in the facility are of Latin American origin.
In total, 95% of those detained come from Latin American countries, although there are individuals from more than 40 different nations.
According to the published data, the most common nationalities are Guatemala (22%), Mexico (21.5%), and Cuba (11.6%).
There are also immigrants from Honduras (9.5%), the Dominican Republic (5.1%), Nicaragua (4.9%), Colombia (4.8%), Venezuela (4.5%), El Salvador (3.1%), and Haiti (2.3%).
The list includes nationalities such as Brazil, Jamaica, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, among others.
The report also reveals that more than 250 of the detainees are facing only immigration violations, with no history of violent crimes.
On their part, a third have some sort of criminal record, although the documents do not specify the nature of the charges, which range from illegal re-entries to serious crimes such as attempted murder.
“Alligator Alcatraz”, as the center has been nicknamed, has faced severe criticism from Democratic lawmakers, human rights organizations, and religious leaders.
After a recent visit, a group of Florida congressmen reported that the migrants are "in cages, packed like sardines," enduring extreme temperatures, oppressive humidity, lack of drinking water, and food in a state of decomposition.
The Archdiocese of Miami also spoke out against the center, describing it as a “corrosive and inappropriate solution” that undermines human dignity.
This report comes to light amid the Trump Administration's announcement to build five new detention mega-centers in Republican states, inspired by the Florida model.
The Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, confirmed that discussions have already begun with local governments to replicate the "Alligator Alcatraz" infrastructure.
Meanwhile, access to the center remains restricted for the press, which has increased criticisms regarding the lack of transparency and violations of the fundamental rights of migrants.
Frequently Asked Questions about the "Alligator Alcatraz" Detention Center
What is the situation of the migrants detained in "Alligator Alcatraz"?
More than 55% of the migrants detained in "Alligator Alcatraz" come from Guatemala, Mexico, and Cuba. The center houses over 700 people, of whom more than 250 face only immigration violations without a history of violent crimes. However, one third has some form of criminal record. Conditions at the center have been criticized as inhumane, with migrants "in cages, packed like sardines," enduring extreme temperatures and a lack of potable water.
What criticisms has the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center received?
"Alligator Alcatraz" has faced severe criticism for its inhumane conditions. Democratic legislators, human rights organizations, and religious leaders have reported that migrants are living in deplorable conditions, such as overcrowding and lack of potable water. The Archdiocese of Miami described it as a "corrosive and inappropriate solution." Furthermore, the restricted access for the press has heightened criticism over a lack of transparency.
What impact does the "Alligator Alcatraz" center have on the environment?
The "Alligator Alcatraz" center has raised concern over its negative environmental impact. Located in an ecologically sensitive area of the Everglades, its construction has been criticized by environmental organizations due to the lack of environmental impact studies and the risk to the ecosystem. The location poses a threat to species such as the Florida panther, and lawsuits have been filed to halt the project for these reasons.
How has the Trump administration responded to the criticisms regarding "Alligator Alcatraz"?
The Trump administration has defended the "Alligator Alcatraz" center as a model of efficiency and security. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, and President Donald Trump have promoted the facility as part of a new offensive against irregular immigration. Despite the criticism, they have begun talks to replicate the model in other Republican states, arguing that it is an effective solution to the immigration problem.
What measures are being taken regarding human rights in "Alligator Alcatraz"?
The conditions in "Alligator Alcatraz" have been described as a violation of human rights. Legislators and organizations have condemned the inhumane conditions, and the Archdiocese of Miami has called it an inappropriate solution that undermines human dignity. Despite visits from congress members, interviews with the detainees have not been allowed, raising concerns about the lack of transparency and respect for fundamental rights.
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