TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A federal judge suspended construction for two weeks at Alligator Alcatraz, a mass immigration detention center near the Everglades.
The conservation group wants the judges to do more. One of the plaintiffs is a friend of the Everglades. Evesample is the group’s executive director.
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“We are seeking an order to halt entire activities, so states and federal governments can comply with the National Environmental Policy Act,” the sample said.
The sample refers to federal laws that take into account the environmental impact of major projects through assessments and direct agencies to include the public.
“This is a very common sense law and requires the government to see it before it jumps,” Sample said.
Friends of the Everglades helped thwart further development of South Florida’s runways in the 1960s through founder Marjorie Stoneman Douglas.
The group is not alone as a plaintiff. The Biodiversity Center, which has an office in Pinellas County, is also involved in the lawsuit.
“We also documented the lack of stormwater treatment surrounding the new pavement through aerial video, aerial photography, about 20 acres of new asphalt on the site, large parking lots and new road pavement at the site,” Sample said.
The sample said there was also noise and traffic that could affect wildlife.
Two weeks ago, Gov. Ron Desantis was asked about environmental concerns as the facility expanded to hold up to 4,000 immigrants.
“That won’t affect you. Like Kevin said, hundreds of flights came here and trained them. Now every flight you see is in your existing infrastructure,” DeSantis said.
Florida Attorney General James Usmieyer posted an answer to X.
“The Alligator Alcatraz was already built and operational. It continues to be operational, detained and deported. Still, the judge’s restraining order is wrong and will be appealed,” Usmier said.
Another federal court hearing before Obama’s appointed judge is scheduled to happen Tuesday.
DHS Deputy Director Tricia McLaughlin has issued the following statement:
“The lawsuit ignores the fact that the land has already been developed for a decade. Another attempt to prevent the president from fulfilling American missions to deport the masses. These environmental activists and activist judges don’t care about our country’s invasions promoted by the Biden administration, but Americans do.”
Alex Lanfranconi, Governor Desantis’ Director of Communications, also issued a statement.
“The (Thursday) ruling by an activist judge will not affect immigration enforcement in Florida. Alligator Alcatraz will continue to operate and continue as a multiplier of forces to strengthen deportation efforts.”
