In Fort Myers, Florida, a federal judge is calling for civil rights and state lawyers to negotiate a settlement regarding the access of legal representatives for detainees at a contentious immigration facility. U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has scheduled a conference for December 16-17 following a status hearing on Monday, expressing optimism regarding the progress towards agreement. Detainees' attorney Eunice Cho from the ACLU highlighted the challenges in visiting clients, revealing that appointments must be made three days ahead—unlike at other facilities where attorneys can easily visit. Detainees often face additional complications due to lengthy transfer delays, jeopardizing their opportunity to consult with their legal representatives before important deadlines. The governor's administration constructed this facility in a remote area of the Everglades to accommodate an increasing number of detainees, raising concerns regarding infrastructure and basic rights. The ongoing lawsuit is part of a series of federal disputes related to the center, with one case previously granting the detention center permission to continue operations despite a lower court's ruling to wind it down. Notably, President Trump has previously toured the facility, endorsing it as a potential model for similar centers nationwide.
Federal Judge Seeks Settlement in Florida Immigration Detention Access Case
A federal judge in Florida is convening attorneys to discuss a settlement regarding detainees' access to legal representation in a controversial immigration detention center.
U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell scheduled a conference for December to facilitate negotiations between civil rights lawyers and state attorneys in a lawsuit questioning detainees' legal access in an immigration facility likened to 'Alligator Alcatraz'. Issues regarding appointment requirements for attorney visits and previous delays in detainee transfers have been focal points in ongoing discussions about detainee rights.




















