Florida immigration detention center sued over Everglades air pollution

The Center for Biological Diversity has filed a lawsuit against the state of Florida, alleging that the immigration detention facility nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz” in Big Cypress National Preserve is releasing hazardous air pollutants in violation of the federal Clean Air Act. The suit points to diesel generators powering the site, which emit benzene, formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that threaten human health, the fragile wetlands and endangered species such as the Florida panther and Everglade snail kite.

The plaintiffs also cite violations of the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act and other statutes, seeking civil penalties of up to $124,426 per day. The facility, which still holds about 655 detainees, has no confirmed closure timeline, and officials say it could remain operational for up to two years. The lawsuit seeks removal of the generators and stricter environmental oversight.

The action follows earlier litigation by Friends of the Everglades and the Miccosukee Tribe, and adds to ongoing legal challenges to the detention center’s environmental impact.