Judge Orders That ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Detention Center Be Shut Down for Now

Judge Kathleen M. Williams of the Federal District Court in Miami ruled the federal and state governments did not conduct environmental reviews before building Alligator Alcatraz, and that was illegal.

The judge ruled that most of Alligator Alcatraz must be dismantled, and no more immigrants can be sent there. Judge Williams told federal and state officials to remove power generators, fencing, and other building materials, and gave them 60 days to move the detainees who were still there out. No new construction is allowed on the site.

There have been many complaints about unsanitary and dangerous conditions at Alligator Alcatraz.

The Miccosukee Tribe and environmentalists sought an injunction, which Judge Williams partly granted. The ecologically sensitive, protected lands of the Everglades surround Alligator Alcatraz. Construction there could reduce the habitat of the Florida panther, which is one of the endangered species in the Everglades.

Judge Williams is standing up against Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, and James Uthmeier, the attorney general for Florida. Uthmeier, the state's attorney general, seems to have indirectly tried to intimidate Judge Williams. In a different case, there is a new Florida state immigration law. Judge Williams ordered that part of that new law not be enforced. Mr. Uthmeier defied her order and subsequently, the judge held him in contempt of court.

Judges at this time are often in physical danger, and many have been threatened. 

Applaud and recognize Judge Kathleen M. Williams for her courage and integrity. Our Judiciary group is writing postcards to lawyers and judges to encourage and support them - join their efforts for Judge Williams.   Details in Justiciary Subgroup Section.

ADDRESS of Federal District Court in Miami:

Judge Kathleen M. Williams

Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. United States Courthouse

400 North Miami Avenue

Miami, Florida 33128Enter your text here ...

REFERENCES:

Judge Orders 'Alligator Alcatraz' Detention Center in Florida to Shut Down for Now - The New York Times

Reporting from Miami

Aug. 21, 2025

Judge orders temporary halt to new construction at Alligator Alcatraz

Judge orders temporary halt to new construction at Alligator Alcatraz - The Washington Post

Aug. 7, 2025

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