On Thursday, a federal judge, Kathleen Williams, ordered the closure of the “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention facility in the Florida Everglades, marking a significant victory for environmental advocates. The ruling responded to claims that the facility was damaging the delicate Everglades ecosystem, an area long protected from major developments.
Judge Williams emphasized the historical commitment of local and national leaders to safeguard the Everglades, stemming from the rejection of a proposed commercial airport in the 1960s. She granted Florida 60 days to shut down the facility and halted all construction, ensuring that the number of detainees would not increase.
Environmental advocates celebrated the decision, with Evesample from Friends of the Everglades calling it a “groundbreaking victory.” Elise Bennett from the Center for Biodiversity highlighted the relief the ruling brought to those passionate about the region, stating that the detention center posed a threat to endangered species and ecosystems. Tania Garroni from the Florida Earth Justice firm reiterated that the ruling underscores the importance of environmental laws.
This decision follows a previous temporary suspension of construction at the facility, which had faced criticism from human rights organizations and local lawmakers, including Rep. Maxwell Frost, who described his visit to the site as deeply troubling. An appeal of the ruling is anticipated.
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