Lawyers Say Access to 'Alligator Alcatraz' Remains Difficult

Judge weighs case as detainees struggle to reach attorneys at Florida immigration detention facility

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Attorneys representing detainees at Florida's state-run immigration detention center, nicknamed 'Alligator Alcatraz', say their clients are still facing hurdles in accessing their lawyers, despite the state's claims that access problems have been resolved. Two lawyers filed statements with a federal court, stating their clients were unable to call them using staff cellphones and the attorneys were unable to make unannounced visits to the facility.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns about access to legal counsel for detainees at the controversial Everglades detention center, which was built by the DeSantis administration to support the Trump administration's immigration policies. The facility has faced scrutiny over allegations that detainees' First Amendment rights are being violated.

The details

During a recent court hearing, a state contractor testified that detainees and attorneys had access to staff cellphones and could make unannounced visits. However, the two attorneys filing statements say they have experienced continued difficulties in accessing their clients. The Florida Department of Emergency Management, which oversees the detention center, did not respond to a request for comment.

  • The Everglades detention center was built last summer by the DeSantis administration.
  • A federal court hearing on detainee access to attorneys was held in late January 2026.

The players

Sheri Polster Chappell

The U.S. District Judge presiding over the case regarding detainee access to attorneys at the Everglades detention center.

Ron DeSantis

The Republican Governor of Florida who oversaw the construction of the Everglades detention center to support the Trump administration's immigration policies.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. President whose immigration policies were supported by the construction of the Everglades detention center.

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What they’re saying

“Attorneys for detainees at a state-run immigration detention facility in the Florida Everglades known as 'Alligator Alcatraz' said Thursday that they are still facing hurdles in getting access to their clients, despite state claims that those barriers have been removed.”

— Attorneys (Breitbart)

What’s next

Judge Chappell is expected to rule on whether to grant the detainees' request for the same attorney access as at federally-run detention centers.

The takeaway

The ongoing legal battle over access to counsel at the controversial 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center underscores the broader challenges faced by immigration detainees in securing their constitutional rights, even as state officials claim the issues have been resolved.