Inspection Finds Dozens of Violations at Texas Migrant Detention Camp

Report cites issues with medical care, use of force, and lack of response to sexual abuse allegations at Camp East Montana facility.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 12:12am

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A serene, cinematic painting of a lone guard tower at a detention camp, with warm sunlight casting deep shadows across the barbed wire fencing, conveying a sense of isolation and melancholy.The somber, isolated atmosphere of the Camp East Montana detention facility reflects the grim realities uncovered in a recent inspection.Fort Bliss Today

An inspection of Camp East Montana, one of the country's largest immigration detention centers located in Texas, found dozens of violations of national standards, including instances that may have exposed detainees to illnesses and uses of force that were not properly documented, according to a new report.

Why it matters

The findings come amid calls from lawmakers to close the detention facility, which has faced reports of poor conditions and at least three detainee deaths. The inspection raises concerns about medical care, use of force, and the facility's handling of sexual abuse allegations.

The details

The inspection, conducted by the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Detention Oversight, found at least 49 overall 'deficiencies' from national standards at the camp. Of those, 22 involved use of force and restraints, and five involved issues related to medical care. The report also found the facility did not properly implement a team approach to respond to sexual abuse or assault allegations.

  • The inspection was carried out over three days in February 2026.
  • At least 13 cases of measles were reported at the facility earlier this year, prompting quarantine.
  • Detainee Victor Manuel Diaz died at the facility on January 14, 2026 in what ICE said was a 'presumed suicide'.

The players

Camp East Montana

One of the country's largest immigration detention centers, located at the military base Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. The facility opened in August 2025.

Acquisition Logistics

The Virginia-based company that operates Camp East Montana, awarded a $1.2 billion federal contract last year to run the facility.

Randall Kallinen

A lawyer representing the family of detainee Victor Manuel Diaz, who died at the facility in January 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Even though ICE was looking at ICE, they still found 49 deficiencies.”

— Randall Kallinen, Lawyer

What’s next

The Department of Homeland Security is reviewing its contract for Camp East Montana amid the reports of poor conditions.

The takeaway

The inspection findings underscore ongoing concerns about medical care, use of force, and handling of sexual abuse allegations at the large immigration detention facility, reigniting calls from lawmakers to shut down the camp entirely.