Appeals Court Blocks Obama Judge’s Order
Court Pauses Closure of Alligator Alcatraz
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals halted a ruling that ordered Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz detention center shut down.
District Judge Kathleen Williams had required the site to close within 60 days, citing pollution risks to the Everglades.
Environmental Lawsuit
The Miccosukee Tribe and environmentalists argued the facility caused “light pollution affecting members’ ability to observe the night skies” and “noise pollution impacting members’ ability to observe and interact with wildlife.”
Appeals Court Response
In a 2-1 decision, the judges questioned Williams’ findings,
noting the site was already a busy airport with “28,000 landings and takeoffs in the prior six months alone,
bright lights kept on ’24/7.’” The court wrote, “we GRANT the Defendants’ motions, and we STAY the preliminary injunction.”
Political Reaction
Gov. Ron DeSantis celebrated, calling the ruling proof the facility remains open.
“The mission continues on immigration enforcement,” he said.
