Tents could soon house more immigrants at Krome Detention Center
The Krome Detention Center may soon house more immigrants under tent structures as overcrowding concerns grow, according to U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson.
Family member describes overcrowding conditions
Jessica Rodriguez said her husband, Josue Aguilar, 27, was transferred to Krome two weeks ago after being detained at a U.S. immigration services office.
Aguilar told her the facility was overcrowded and detainees were lying on the floor. "He would tell me 20 people would be taken out and 50 would come in," she said.
Rodriguez reached out to Rep. Wilson, a Democrat representing South Florida, who requested a tour of the immigration facility. Wilson also reviewed social media video reportedly taken by a detainee describing a lack of cleanliness.
Tents erected to increase capacity, Wilson says
After the tour, Wilson said she was alarmed by the conditions, particularly the presence of a tent with a 200-person capacity already erected on site. She said immigration officials confirmed more tents are being prepared, including one for up to 800 people.
Wilson also raised concerns about the appearance of the facility during her visit, saying it looked freshly painted and prepared for inspection. She said she plans to return unannounced to get a more accurate view.
Rodriguez said her husband has since been moved to a detention facility in Texas due to overcrowding at Krome.
ICE responds to staging allegations
In a statement to CBS News Miami, Immigration and Customs Enforcement denied that the facility was staged for Wilson's visit.
"What the congresswoman saw today was not staged, and any allegation that it was is simply not true," ICE stated. "Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority."
ICE acknowledged that some facilities are experiencing temporary overcrowding and said it is working to manage capacity while maintaining federal standards.
The ICE field office director for Miami is Juan Agudelo.
