Dozens of Safety Violations Found at Largest ICE Detention Center

Internal inspection uncovers issues with use of force, medical care, and suicide prevention at El Paso facility.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cinematic painting of a solitary barbed wire fence or detention center gate, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the somber mood and troubling findings of the inspection report.The internal inspection report reveals troubling issues at one of the country's largest immigration detention facilities, raising ongoing concerns about the treatment of detainees.El Paso Today

A recent internal inspection by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) found 49 safety and security deficiencies at the country's largest migrant detention center, Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas. The violations included failures to properly document use of force incidents, provide medical exams after altercations, and isolate and report a detainee showing symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis. Inspectors also found issues with the facility's suicide prevention protocols.

Why it matters

The inspection report raises ongoing concerns about the treatment of detainees at the $1.2 billion facility, which has seen three deaths since opening in 2025. The findings come amid broader scrutiny of the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement policies and the conditions at ICE detention centers.

The details

Inspectors with ICE's Office of Detention Oversight found 49 deficiencies at Camp East Montana during a three-day visit, including 22 violations related to the 'use of force and restraints.' These included failing to document incidents, provide medical exams, and record events on video. While none of the 49 detainees interviewed made allegations of mistreatment, the report identified four 'priority' issues in the medical department, such as a failure to isolate a detainee showing TB symptoms and notify leadership.

  • The inspection took place in early 2026.
  • Camp East Montana opened in 2025.

The players

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that oversees the U.S. immigration detention system.

Camp East Montana

The largest ICE detention center in the country, located in El Paso, Texas.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal department that oversees ICE and other immigration enforcement agencies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

ICE has said it is hiring a new contractor to operate the facility and implement a 'precise quality assurance surveillance plan' to provide more oversight and on-site medical care.

The takeaway

This inspection report highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of detainees at ICE facilities, particularly around use of force, medical care, and suicide prevention protocols. The findings come as the Biden administration faces pressure to reform the immigration detention system and address allegations of abuse and neglect.