Florida's controversial immigration detention center, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," has been permanently closed, according to Governor Ron DeSantis. The facility, which opened in July 2025 in the Everglades, was initially intended as a temporary solution to process undocumented immigrants. DeSantis stated that it served its purpose before the federal government secured more permanent detention capacity.
The detention center faced significant criticism from immigration advocates and lawyers for its poor conditions, including reports of worms in food, non-flushing toilets, and mosquito infestations. Despite the criticism, DeSantis claimed the facility facilitated the deportation of 21,000 individuals, making Florida safer.
While DeSantis asserted the closure was due to the original temporary nature of the facility and increased federal capacity, sources close to the operation indicated that escalating costs were a primary factor. The total cost for the detention center is estimated at $1.2 billion. Florida had requested $608 million in reimbursement from the federal government, but only $58 million has been received so far due to court challenges and other issues. The state also faces tens of millions of dollars in "demobilization fees" to vendors.
Detainees were transferred to other facilities in Florida, California, Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas earlier in June. The site is expected to eventually reopen as a small airport for pilot training. The closure comes after sustained pressure and legal challenges against the facility, which was built quickly by DeSantis's administration with support from President Donald Trump.
