Federal Judge Temporarily Restrains Conditions at Broadview ICE Facility
A federal judge has ordered significant changes at the Broadview ICE facility in response to a lawsuit highlighting dire conditions. U.S. District Judge Robert Gettleman issued a two-week temporary restraining order on Wednesday. This aims to protect detainees from what he described as likely irreparable harm.
Judge’s Orders Addressing Conditions at Broadview ICE Facility
The court order mandates several crucial improvements for detainees:
- Provision of clean bedding mats with adequate space.
- Access to essential hygiene items, including soap, toilet paper, towels, and menstrual products.
- Availability of showers at least every other day.
- Three meals a day, along with access to drinking water.
- Regular cleaning of holding cells, at least twice daily.
- Ensured privacy for detainee communications with their attorneys.
- Inclusion in the ICE online detainee locator system.
Testimonies Highlight Dire Conditions
Judge Gettleman’s ruling followed a hearing that featured over three hours of testimonies. Witnesses described overcrowded holding cells, with up to 100 individuals crammed together. Detainees were reportedly deprived of hot meals and forced to sleep on dirty floors next to open toilets.
Gettleman termed the testimonies as “highly credible,” asserting that sleeping conditions were appalling. He voiced concerns over detainees being forced to sleep in plastic chairs or on the floor.
Background of the Lawsuit
The class-action lawsuit was filed last week by the MacArthur Justice Center and the Roger Baldwin Foundation of ACLU. The allegation describes the Broadview facility as a “black hole” and claims federal officials operate without oversight. Despite assertions from government lawyers that the facility is not equipped for overnight stays, reports from reputable news outlets like the Chicago Sun-Times indicate otherwise.
Next Steps in the Legal Proceedings
Gettleman emphasized the need for the government to comply with the order within a reasonable timeframe. He instructed government lawyers to provide an update on compliance by noon on Friday.
As legal representatives prepare for the next hearing on November 19, they are seeking more insights into the facility conditions. Information requested includes video footage, documentation given to detainees upon arrival, and facility policies. The ongoing situation at the Broadview ICE facility continues to raise concerns about the treatment of detainees and the overall management of the facility.
