ICE Camp East Montana deficiencies & Amentum takeover amid mega-detention push, DHS pauses, vigils & county lawsuit
Key Questions
What deficiencies were found at ICE Camp East Montana?
A February inspection of the ICE facility at Camp East Montana revealed 49 deficiencies after eight months of operation. This is the largest immigrant detention facility in the nation, raising concerns about conditions inside.
What is the proposed mega detention center in Socorro?
The Socorro mega detention center is a 60-acre, $122.8 million site planned for 5,000 to 8,500 beds, costing around $123 million. It is advancing despite a DHS pause on new immigrant detention warehouse purchases.
Why did El Paso County sue ICE?
El Paso County filed a lawsuit against ICE after it ignored a February 17 FOIA request for plans, environmental details, and transparency on the Socorro detention center. County Attorney Christina Sanchez received approval from commissioners on April 6 to proceed with the federal lawsuit.
Has DHS paused new detention facilities?
Yes, the Department of Homeland Security has paused the purchase of new warehouses for detained immigrants amid a leadership change. However, the Socorro project continues to advance.
Are there ongoing protests against the detention center?
Yes, vigils, protests involving Rep. Escobar and over 200 Socorro residents continue amid concerns like EPWater strains and lack of transparency. These actions coincide with the county's lawsuit and facility deficiencies.
Feb inspection 49 deficiencies; measles surge; $123M Socorro mega (60-acre $122.8M site for 5-8.5k beds) advances despite DHS pause; El Paso County FOIA lawsuit vs ICE filed (Sanchez-led over ignored Feb17 request for plans/env/transparency); vigils/protests/Escobar/200+ Socorro residents continue amid EPWater strains.