A federal judge in Miami ruled on Thursday for the temporary suspension of construction at the controversial immigrant detention center located in the middle of the Everglades, known as Alligator Alcatraz.
The measure, issued by Judge Kathleen Williams, will be in effect for 14 days while the allegations that the project violates federal environmental laws are debated, reported The New York Times.
Although the center will still be able to operate and house detainees for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), workers will not be allowed to add new fill, pave, or raise additional infrastructure during the restriction period.
Williams announced that he will publish the written order later in the day.
The decision follows the request made on July 17 by environmental groups and the Miccosukee tribe, who argue that the facility threatens protected wetlands and puts years of investment in environmental restoration at risk.
"The construction of 'Alligator Alcatraz' violates the sovereign rights of the Miccosukee and threatens a culturally and ecologically significant landscape. It also violates the human rights of immigrants and their families. It is illegal and immoral," stated Judith LeBlanc, executive director of the Native Organizers Alliance.
According to the plaintiffs, the center is in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by failing to conduct an impact assessment or allow public participation prior to its construction.
The attorney for the environmental groups, Paul Schwiep, emphasized that the purpose of the center is to enforce immigration law, which is the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal government, making the review of NEPA mandatory.
In contrast, Florida's legal representative, Jesse Panuccio, argued that the construction and operation are the state's responsibility, so that law would not apply.
Williams, however, pointed out that the project is “at least” a collaboration between state and federal authorities.
This is not the only legal battle that Alligator Alcatraz is facing.
A second lawsuit, filed by civil rights groups, accuses authorities of violating constitutional rights by denying detained individuals access to lawyers, holding them in custody without charges, and canceling bail hearings.
That hearing is scheduled for August 18th.
The center was built just over a month ago on an old runway in Miami-Dade County, in a remote area of Collier County, within the Everglades.
Meanwhile, the administration of Governor Ron DeSantis is preparing to establish a second detention center at a National Guard training camp in northern Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Alligator Alcatraz Detention Center
Why has the construction of the Alligator Alcatraz center stopped?
The construction of the Alligator Alcatraz center has been temporarily halted by order of federal judge Kathleen Williams due to allegations that the project violates federal environmental laws. Environmental groups and the Miccosukee tribe have reported that the facility threatens protected wetlands and violates sovereign and human rights.
What does Alligator Alcatraz accuse of violating the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)?
The demanding groups accuse Alligator Alcatraz of violating NEPA because the center was built without conducting an environmental impact assessment and without allowing public participation. They argue that this is mandatory due to federal authority in the enforcement of immigration law.
What impact does the Alligator Alcatraz detention center have on the environment and indigenous communities?
Alligator Alcatraz has been criticized for its negative impact on the environment and on Indigenous communities, especially the Miccosukee tribe, which regards the area as sacred. The construction of the center in the Everglades, an ecologically sensitive region, could irreversibly harm the natural habitat and violate environmental protection agreements and consultation with the tribes.
What complaints have been made about the humanitarian conditions in Alligator Alcatraz?
Reports have been made about inhumane conditions at Alligator Alcatraz, including overcrowding, lack of access to medical services, and unsanitary conditions. Human rights organizations have emphasized that detainees face extreme heat, mosquito infestations, and a lack of drinking water, which jeopardizes their health and well-being.
What is the current legal situation of the Alligator Alcatraz detention center?
The legal situation of Alligator Alcatraz is complex and faces multiple lawsuits. Environmental groups, civil rights organizations, and the Miccosukee tribe have filed legal actions challenging the legality of the center for human rights violations and environmental laws. Hearings to address these issues are underway.
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