A federal judge has ordered the immediate halt to bringing new detainees to the ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ immigration detention facility in the Florida Everglades and mandated its shutdown within 60 days, citing environmental law violations. This ruling represents a significant legal setback for the Trump administration and Florida government, while being hailed as a victory by environmental advocates.
Who: The ruling was issued by U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams, an Obama appointee, in response to lawsuits filed by environmental groups including Friends of the Everglades and the Miccosukee Tribe. It directly affects the Trump administration, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ government, and the hundreds of detainees at the facility.
What: Judge Williams prohibited state and federal officials from bringing any new detainees to the site and ordered the relocation of existing detainees within 60 days. Additionally, she mandated the removal of all infrastructure added for the detention camp, including fencing, lighting, generators, gas, sewage systems, and waste receptacles.
When: The ruling was issued on Thursday, August 22, 2025, with the 60-day compliance period beginning immediately. The judge had previously issued a temporary restraining order halting construction earlier in August.
Where: The facility is located at the Collier Dade Training and Transition Airport in the heart of the Florida Everglades, specifically within the Big Cypress National Preserve. This remote location earned it the nickname ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ due to its isolated setting and harsh conditions.
Why: The judge found that both state and federal governments failed to conduct required environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act before constructing the detention camp. She determined that officials rushed the project without considering alternative locations or evaluating environmental risks to the sensitive Everglades ecosystem.
How: Through an 82-page ruling, Judge Williams concluded that the project violated environmental laws by paving over 20 acres of land, installing extensive infrastructure, and operating in a protected area without proper assessment. She rejected government arguments that federal environmental laws didn’t apply because the state operated the facility, noting extensive federal involvement in funding, standards, and staffing.
Impact: The ruling delivers a major blow to immigration enforcement efforts that utilized this facility, while protecting the Everglades from further environmental damage. It sets a precedent that environmental laws must be followed even for projects addressing national security or immigration concerns. The decision has been celebrated by environmental groups as a landmark victory for conservation.
What’s Next: Florida officials have already filed notice of appeal to the Eleventh Circuit Court, indicating a prolonged legal battle ahead. During the 60-day period, authorities must wind down operations humanely while removing infrastructure. The outcome could influence similar detention facilities nationwide and reinforce environmental protections in federally significant areas.