Summary
The Department of Homeland Security is buying commercial warehouses to convert them into ICE detention centers, causing protests in multiple states. These new centers aim to increase capacity for detaining people before deportation but have faced backlash from local communities and officials.
Key Facts
- The Department of Homeland Security plans to turn commercial warehouses into ICE detention centers.
- The largest of these centers could house up to 9,500 people.
- ICE's budget increased with $45 billion from a bill, allowing large property purchases.
- Protesters have opposed these plans in places like Virginia, Maryland, Minnesota, Texas, New Hampshire, and New York.
- The Trump administration's strict immigration enforcement has lowered public support for ICE.
- The government has already spent over $170 million on properties in Maryland and Arizona.
- Some private prison contractors have unused capacity, indicating possible over-purchase.
- Almost 70,000 people are currently held by ICE, according to January figures.
