Florida's 3,000-Bed 'Alligator Alcatraz' Migrant Facility Draws Strong Condemnation from Archdiocese of Miami

The Archdiocese of Miami has issued a strong condemnation of Florida’s recently established migrant detention facility, controversially named “Alligator Alcatraz.” The religious body stated that the facility is “unbecoming of public officials” and “corrosive of the common good,” according to a tweet from NBC News. This denouncement adds to growing criticism surrounding the remote Everglades site.

The facility, situated at the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in the Everglades, was rapidly constructed to house migrants. It is designed to accommodate up to 3,000 detainees, with potential expansion to 5,000 beds, and is intended to serve as a deterrent due to its remote, alligator and python-infested surroundings. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who coined the nickname, suggested that little perimeter investment was needed as "if people get out, there's not much waiting for them other than alligators and pythons."

Reports from inside the facility, including accounts from Cuban reggaeton artist Leamsy La Figura, allege inhumane conditions. Detainees claim a severe lack of access to water, inadequate food, and denial of religious rights, describing the environment as "like rats in an experiment" with constant lighting and extreme mosquito infestations. Florida officials, however, have denied these accusations, stating that the facility meets all required standards.

Environmental groups and Indigenous communities have also voiced significant concerns, citing threats to the fragile Everglades ecosystem and the sacred lands of the Miccosukee Tribe. Lawsuits have been filed by environmental organizations seeking to halt operations, while state lawmakers denied access to the site have also sued Governor Ron DeSantis, arguing an obstruction of legislative oversight.

The "Alligator Alcatraz" project is part of a broader push by the Trump administration and Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, to accelerate mass deportations. The facility is estimated to cost $450 million annually to operate, with Florida planning to seek federal reimbursement. The state has leveraged emergency powers to expedite its construction, despite objections from Miami-Dade County officials regarding the land's use and valuation.