MIAMI (AP) — A federal judge on Thursday ordered a temporary halt to the construction of an immigrant detention center built in the middle of Florida’s Everglades and nicknamed the ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ while lawyers argue whether it violates environmental laws.
The facility may continue operating and housing detainees for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, but workers will be barred from adding any new fill, paving, or infrastructure for the next 14 days.
Judge Kathleen Williams issued the ruling during a hearing and said she would issue a written order later that Thursday.
Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe have asked Williams to issue a preliminary injunction to halt the operations and further construction.
The lawsuit contends the project threatens environmentally sensitive wetlands that are home to protected plants and animals and would undo billions of dollars in environmental restoration.
