Records obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) indicate that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is considering proposals to increase immigration detention capacity in Nevada. These documents were acquired following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit filed by the ACLU in September. The records reveal proposals from private prison corporations, including GEO Group, CoreCivic, and MTC Corporation, to expand detention facilities nationwide. Some of these facilities have histories of abusive conditions, such as the Nevada Southern Detention Center in Pahrump, which has faced federal investigation for issues like medical negligence and racial discrimination.
Despite Nevada’s previous decision to move away from using private prisons, the federal immigration detention system continues to depend heavily on them. Athar Haseebullah, executive director of ACLU of Nevada, expressed concerns about ICE’s plans: “The ACLU’s investigation into ICE’s plans reveals a dangerous push to expand immigration detention facilities across the country, including here in Nevada.”
Haseebullah further warned that expanding ICE presence could harm families and erode trust in law enforcement: “Expanding ICE presence in Nevada will tear families apart, erode trust in law enforcement, and make Nevada less safe.” He emphasized the potential negative impact on Nevada’s economy if such policies are implemented: “If the Trump administration’s approach to immigration is effectuated as described, it would wreck Nevada’s economy.”
The ACLU of Nevada intends to challenge any mass deportation efforts within the state. Haseebullah urged state and local officials to take action: “It’s more important than ever for our state and local elected officials to step up for Nevada families and communities.” He called for transparency from Governor Lombardo regarding cooperation with federal deportation initiatives: “We need transparency and action, and that starts with Governor Lombardo speaking openly to the public and the media.”
A copy of the FOIA records is available.
