Krome detention center investigation reveals overcrowding and abuse

A United States government investigation has revealed significant overcrowding and abuses at the Krome migrant detention center in southern Florida. According to a report by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General, an unannounced visit in May 2025 found the facility housing 1,102 detainees, exceeding its maximum capacity of 882 by 25%.

The overcrowding forced detainees to sleep on temporary cots instead of permanent beds and resulted in a failure to maintain the minimum required number of functioning toilets, sinks, and showers. The report also noted considerable delays in medical care due to staffing shortages, with new detainees sometimes waiting over twelve hours in crowded processing rooms.

Furthermore, the investigation documented 44 incidents of force used by staff between November 2024 and May 2025. Notable instances included the use of pepper spray on a detainee and an officer improperly using a chokehold during a cell search for contraband. These actions were characterized by inspectors as excessive use of force that should only be employed in cases of strict necessity.