NYC Judge Orders ICE to Improve Migrant Detention Conditions

A federal judge has ordered U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to significantly improve conditions at a New York City holding facility for detained migrants. The order, issued in response to a lawsuit, mandates improvements in cleanliness, reduced capacity, and better access to legal phone calls at 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan.

Key Issues Highlighted by the Lawsuit:

• Lack of access to attorneys
• Inadequate medical care
• Insufficient hygiene products
• Limited access to adequate food

<img alt="Image of migrants in the holding facility" src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/00ebf142-7cd3-499c-a902-ec540a62d653/migrants_1753225748371_hpMain_9x16.jpg">

The ruling comes after a video obtained by ABC News showed concerning conditions within the facility, including overcrowding and inadequate sanitation. The New York Immigration Coalition argued the video evidenced the facility's use as a long-term detention center rather than a short-term holding area, contradicting ICE's stated guidelines.

Judge Kaplan's Statement:

Judge Kaplan emphasized the importance of humane treatment, stating, "Whatever the merits of the Administration's determination to deport illegal aliens...we must remember that this is the United States of America. We aspire to treat all Americans -- and those among us -- with humanity." He noted ICE's expanded enforcement efforts led to overcrowding.

Reactions:

The American Civil Liberties Union hailed the ruling as a victory for immigrants' rights, highlighting the importance of ensuring basic human dignity for all individuals held in government custody.