Overview
- The class-action filing on Oct. 31 alleges detainees at the Chicago-area processing site were denied water, food, medical care, hygiene and other basics in cramped, unsanitary spaces.
- Attorneys say ICE blocked confidential attorney calls and barred members of Congress, faith leaders and journalists from entering, creating an oversight vacuum.
- The complaint contends agents coerced people to sign paperwork they did not understand, causing them to waive rights and face the risk of deportation.
- The suit names DHS, ICE and CBP, alleges Fifth Amendment due-process and First Amendment violations, and asks the court to order facility improvements and guaranteed access to counsel.
- DHS disputes the claims, citing provided meals, medical care and communication access, while a separate protest case led a federal judge to require badges, restrict certain crowd-control tactics and require body cameras for agents who have them.