ICE wasted millions in rush to expand detention, government watchdog finds
Also reported by CBS News
Summary
A government report found that ICE spent billions of dollars quickly expanding detention centers without proper planning, leading to wasted money. The agency rushed into projects, such as buying warehouses, which it later had to sell at a loss, and failed to consider long-term costs.Key Facts
- ICE received over $75 billion since President Trump returned to office to expand its operations.
- A government watchdog, the GAO, reports ICE lacked a clear strategic plan for expansion.
- ICE invested billions in six new detention efforts without careful review or analysis.
- The agency bought 11 warehouses for about $1.07 billion, but later planned to sell 7, losing millions.
- ICE continues to pay large costs for unused facilities, including $12.8 million in utilities and security.
- Mistakes included spending $7.1 million on unneeded meals and $2.85 million on tents that did not meet standards.
- One Florida detention site charged $249 per day per bed, much higher than the usual $92 median rate.
- GAO recommends ICE create a strategic plan, but ICE expects to finish it only by August 2027.
