Federal Judge Orders ICE to End ‘Inhumane’ Conditions at New York Detention Facility
A federal judge has issued a permanent injunction requiring Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to improve detention conditions and mitigate overcrowding at the 26 Federal Plaza holding facility in New York. The ruling follows a bench trial in May where former detainees testified about humiliating treatment by guards, appalling hygiene conditions, and cells packed far beyond capacity. Some detainees reported being denied medical treatment for serious conditions including tuberculosis, monkeypox, diabetes, and seizures. The judge described the facility as “essentially a black site” prior to his initial court orders.
The injunction mandates that ICE provide basic medical screenings before detainees enter holding rooms, so acute and chronic conditions can be identified and treatment can begin. It also requires a licensed medical professional to remain on site. The judge highlighted the case of one asylum seeker who chose to leave the country rather than remain held at the troubled complex, writing, “Perhaps that was at least one reason for the appalling conditions and the cruelty.” Testimony revealed that the holding area had no beds or showers, with bright fluorescent lighting left on overnight. Detainees described food as “slop” that was provided only rarely.
Despite the serious concerns and allegations, Judge Kaplan made clear that the detention facility at 26 Federal Plaza is expected to remain in operation, especially with the mass deportation wave ongoing. An unnamed Department of Homeland Security spokesperson denied many of the judge’s conclusions without providing evidence, stating, “Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in ICE custody remains a top priority.” The court’s order aims to address the egregious conditions and prevent further suffering.
This ruling underscores the ongoing legal and humanitarian challenges surrounding immigration detention. The permanent injunction seeks to enforce basic standards of care and dignity, even as the facility continues to operate. Advocates hope the decision will set a precedent for improved conditions at other detention centers nationwide.
Shimanta Das 
