The Justice Department dealt a significant blow to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ immigration detention project on Wednesday, declaring that a $608 million FEMA reimbursement cannot fund construction or renovation of the facility known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” Instead, it can only finance routine operating expenses. The ruling contradicts previous claims by both Trump and DeSantis that federal funds would largely finance the state-run detention centers. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier acknowledged the reimbursement may not materialize at all. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson stated there will be “no potential federal funding of the facility’s design, siting, maintenance, or construction.” The DOJ filing emerged from litigation by environmental and tribal groups seeking federal regulation of the facility. “Alligator Alcatraz,” a walled tent complex in the Florida Everglades, reportedly houses non-criminal detainees pulled over in traffic stops despite claims it would contain only dangerous immigrants.
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