Environmental concerns could halt construction at ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detention center Politics Aug 13, 2025 5:13 PM EDT

MIAMI (AP) — The fate of a makeshift immigrant detention center in the Florida Everglades dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” hung in the balance on Wednesday as a federal judge considered whether building on sensitive wetlands violated environmental laws.

Last week, U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams ordered a 14-day halt on additional construction at the site while witnesses testified at a hearing, part of a lawsuit seeking to halt operations and further construction. The temporary order doesn’t include any restrictions on law enforcement or immigration enforcement activity.

READ MORE: Gov. DeSantis blindsided Florida county officials with ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ plan

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