Protestors stand outside the migrant detention centre dubbed 'Alligator Alcatraz' in Ochopee, Fla., on July 12. Share Save for later Please log in to bookmark this story. Log In Create Free Account

A federal judge on Thursday ordered a temporary halt to construction at an immigration detention centre – built in the middle of the Florida Everglades and dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” – as attorneys argue whether it violates environmental laws.

The facility can continue to operate and hold detainees for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, but workers will be barred from adding any new filling, paving or infrastructure for the next 14 days. U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams issued the ruling during a hearing and said she will issue a written order later Thursday

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