A federal judge has recently ordered the winding down of Florida’s controversial detention facility, commonly known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” This ruling effectively cuts off all operational funding from the facility, marking the beginning of its shutdown. 

The facility was thrown up rapidly on a former airstrip in the national park, Big Cypress National Reserve, and was done so without proper building permits, prompting lawsuits from both local wildlife reserve officials and the Miccosukee tribe. In response, Judge Kathleen Williams ruled the facility must cease operations and be completely out of operation within 60 days.

A common concern with the facility is that even if it is necessary to house the criminals in the area, the construction was approved with no regard for environmental factors. “I think that it shouldn’t be in the Everglades,” Junior Johnny Han said. “It’s in a protected environment with species that should be reserved.”

Many are also concerned about the treatment of prisoners in the facility and potential financial concerns. “They don’t think to go through the proper regulations before approving the facility,” Senior Jude Misenar said, “and for $200 million dollars?”

Although many critics say the 200 million price tag was too much, some, like Florida’s governor Ron DeSantis believe the state controls the land on which the detention facility sits and the facility must continue to operate to house illegal immigrants despite reports of unfulfilled requirements, such as each prisoner’s right to attorney.

Despite this, the facility has been releasing inmates and is still scheduled to shutdown regardless of DeSantis’ defiance. “I think we should just throw all the members of Congress in there,” Upper School Math Teacher David Bramlett said. “See how they like it.”