U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has partnered with CoreCivic to transform a 2,560-bed facility in California City into the state’s largest migrant detention center. The facility, previously a state prison, received an initial $10 million funding, with potential funding up to $31.2 million for six months starting in April. This move is part of ICE’s strategy to expand its detention capacity amid a national push to increase available beds from 41,500 to 100,000.
California’s decision to close private state prisons, following a 2019 bill signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, has made the facility available for federal use. However, the bill faced legal challenges and was deemed unconstitutional for federal contracts, allowing ICE to proceed with its plans. As a result, the California City facility will boost the state’s detention capacity by 36%, increasing available beds to 9,700.
The expansion has sparked controversy. Critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), have raised concerns about the management and conditions of such centers. Since 2023, the ACLU has tracked 508 grievances in California facilities, citing issues like hazardous conditions and medical neglect. Despite these concerns, California City Mayor Marquette Hawkins views the facility as an economic opportunity, anticipating job openings for 150 support roles and 400 correctional officers.
ICE’s reliance on no-bid contracts with private firms like CoreCivic has drawn criticism for bypassing competitive processes. CoreCivic CEO Damon Hininger expressed optimism about growth opportunities due to the Trump administration’s policies. The facility’s development is part of a broader national strategy to increase detention capacity, with similar expansions occurring in other states.
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