Relatives of immigrants detained at the Federal Detention Center in downtown Miami are speaking out about what they describe as inhumane living conditions inside the facility. Multiple families have contacted local media outlets to report serious problems, including a lack of air conditioning during sweltering summer temperatures, questionable water access, and pest infestations.
According to family members, many of the detainees were recently transferred from the controversial Alligator Alcatraz facility near the Everglades after it closed its doors. Judith Castellanos revealed that her husband, Marlon Cervelo, is among dozens of immigrants now held at the downtown location. She claims the heat inside has become so unbearable that detainees have been forced to sleep in their underwear just to cope with the temperatures.
The concerns extend beyond the oppressive heat. Annett, whose husband Daikel Dumont was also transferred from the Everglades facility, reported that detainees have resorted to drinking water directly from metal sinks in their cells. Families have also raised alarms about cockroach sightings throughout the building. When comparing conditions between the two facilities, Annett said her husband told her the downtown Miami detention center is actually worse than Alligator Alcatraz.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons acknowledged that one of the facility’s chillers malfunctioned but stated the issue has been repaired. However, a 2020 infrastructure report reveals the building has struggled with air conditioning problems for years. Journalists observed a portable cooling unit outside the facility that officials confirmed has been operating for three years to supplement the aging system. Regarding water concerns, a spokesperson explained that a pressure issue last week prompted staff to distribute bottled water temporarily. On the cockroach reports, the agency declined to comment on what it called anecdotal accusations but noted pest control services are in place.
The detention center currently holds more than 1,300 inmates, including both immigration detainees and other federal prisoners. Family members are demanding accountability and humane treatment for their loved ones. As Annett emotionally expressed, her greatest fear is that something terrible will happen to her husband inside those walls and no one will answer for it.
