Migrant Conditions at Miami's Krome Detention Center Spark Outrage

The Krome Detention Center, situated in western Miami-Dade County, has come under scrutiny due to rising allegations of substandard conditions and mistreatment of detainees. A video circulating on social media has thrust the facility into the public eye, amid the anti-immigrant policies enforced by President Donald Trump's administration since he assumed office on January 20.

In the footage shared by a Mexican detainee, individuals are seen sleeping on the floor and chairs. "We feel kidnapped; we're in deportation proceedings but have been here for over 20 days," the man stated.

Various South Florida media outlets have echoed these concerns, highlighting issues like overcrowding, delays in immigration processes, and alleged abuse of detainees.

According to a report by Univisión 23, consultations with lawyers indicate that detention centers such as Krome are overcrowded, which may result in detainees being relocated to other states, including California. "This isn't normal; it's something we're seeing now due to the volume, which is new. This has occurred over the past year," explained immigration attorney Oscar Fleites. He emphasized that detainees at Krome are granted bail by judges, provided they have no criminal record and have applied for legal proceedings, such as asylum.

ICE has acknowledged the overcrowding in its facilities, stating that measures are being implemented to manage capacity and ensure humane treatment. "Ensuring the safety and well-being of those in our custody is a top priority. Some facilities are experiencing temporary overcrowding due to the recent influx of detainees. We are implementing measures to manage capacity while maintaining our commitment to humane treatment," the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency reported.

In a phone interview with the Miami Herald from Honduras, a woman described being shackled on buses overnight with other detainees, to the point that some urinated on themselves. She recounted being placed in a cell with about 30 women before deportation. "It was unimaginably cold," said the woman, identified only by her middle name, Isabel, to protect her family in the U.S. "Sometimes we spent hours shouting, 'We're thirsty, we're thirsty!'"

Another case involves a 36-year-old Cuban national who has been detained at Krome for over a month. The distress is so severe that the man has requested deportation to Cuba—a demand considered extreme, reflecting the harsh conditions he endures, according to his wife.

The allegations have prompted hundreds to rally on Saturday at the corner of 177th Avenue and SW 12th Street, bearing signs and chanting slogans outside Krome's crowded entrance.

Protesters witnessed individuals arriving at the Miami facility to have their cases processed after being detained by ICE officials and their partners, as noted by El Nuevo Herald. The protest, scheduled for 11:00 a.m., began with just a few people near the Miccosukee Casino, and despite having permission to demonstrate, police soon ordered them to disperse.

In Miami, another focal point for many immigrants required to attend scheduled appointments as part of their immigration processes is the ICE office in Miramar, located in Broward County, Florida.

Recently, this facility has drawn attention due to various situations provoking concern among the immigrant community, especially among Cubans with I-220A forms.

Reports have surfaced of Cuban immigrants being detained while attending routine appointments. For instance, Laura de la Caridad González Sánchez, 26, was detained on March 10 during her check-in, despite having no criminal record and complying with all ICE regulations.

The uncertainty surrounding potential detentions has led many immigrants, particularly those with the I-220A form, to approach appointments with anxiety and fear. Yasel Gutiérrez, for example, expressed his nervousness attending his appointment in Miramar, aware of the risks but determined to comply with the law.

Given this situation, it is crucial for immigrants to be informed about their rights and seek appropriate legal counsel. Adhering to all conditions set forth in their immigration processes and attending scheduled appointments punctually is essential to avoid further complications.