Gov. Ron DeSantis is adding another illegal alien detention facility to Florida's repertoire, this time named "Deportation Depot," as the state continues to find ways to expedite migrants from the country. The detention center follows Florida's other processing facility, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," located in the Everglades.
The governor announced the new facility will be located at the Baker Correctional Institute in Sanderson at a news conference on Thursday. The center near Lake City Airport is expected to hold more than 1,300 illegal aliens.
"We want a process, stage, and return illegal aliens to their home country. That is the name of the game," DeSantis said. And that's what we do in Florida. We know that this is an important national priority. Not only of President Trump, but the American people."
President Trump has made illegal immigration enforcement a top priority in his second administration. Operations have also kicked up in Florida under the governor through Operation Vigilant Sentry and Operation Tidal Wave.
"Of all the issues in the election, I can tell you, this immigration and border issue was either the top or right near the top on all people's minds," DeSantis added.
The governor noted that federal partners will reimburse costs, and the facility would be operational soon.
Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie added later that the center should be operational in about two weeks. He also said detainees would have three meals a day and a 24/7 medical facility, similar to Alligator Alcatraz.
“Florida is making a difference. This is a priority for the people of our state. It’s a priority for the people of this country,” DeSantis said.
Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins also spoke at the press conference. Collins was appointed by the governor as his second-in-command on Tuesday.
"Every state is a border state. And I am grateful to have a governor who has stood up and led and set an example for others to follow behind," Collins said. It's time for other states to continue to push forward and press forward."
"If we don't stand up and fight to uphold our laws and hold people accountable, and make sure that those who don't care about our laws, who don't care about citizen welfare and lives are held accountable, what does that say about our leadership?" Collins added.
