Staff at a Florida facility referred to certain enclosures as “calming areas.” However, investigators reported that their use breached federal standards and did not adhere to guidelines for humane treatment.
On September 14, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General revealed findings showing these enclosures. Immigrants detained at the center, famously known as Alligator Alcatraz, were confined in “small metal enclosures” for durations nearing two hours. The Department’s internal watchdog has criticized this as a highly unusual and inhumane detention practice.