Investigators have uncovered concerning practices at a Florida detention center where immigrants were held in small metal enclosures for extended periods. The staff at the facility, known as Alligator Alcatraz, referred to these spaces as “calming areas.” However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) criticized this practice, stating that it violated federal standards.

The DHS OIG report highlighted that detainees were confined in these metal enclosures for nearly two hours at times. The report questioned the facility’s adherence to standards for humane treatment and provided images to support its findings.

Authorities have raised significant concerns about this method, labeling it an unusual form of detention that does not meet the criteria for treating individuals humanely. The investigation aims to address these violations and ensure compliance with federal guidelines.