Overview

• Leaked July 22 footage shows roughly two dozen detainees cramped on bare cement floors under bright lights with only emergency blankets and waist-high partitions shielding shared toilets.
• Federal agents have been stationed in the hallways of 26 Federal Plaza since late May to arrest immigrants immediately after their court hearings, eliminating opportunities for bond hearings.
• The Department of Homeland Security maintains the 10th floor operates solely as a “processing center” and denies any claims of overcrowding or substandard conditions.
• Lawmakers and New York officials have been repeatedly denied legal authority for unannounced inspections of the 10th floor despite congressional oversight rights.
• Immigrant advocates and members of Congress are demanding immediate access, independent inspections and the shutdown of the makeshift detention area.