Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has proposed a game-changing solution to the illegal immigration crisis: “Alligator Alcatraz.” This swamp-based detention center deep in the Everglades would use Florida’s natural predators—alligators and pythons—as a security perimeter, potentially slashing ICE’s detention costs and boosting enforcement.

Florida’s Innovative Detention Solution

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has proposed a groundbreaking detention center concept dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” to the Trump administration. The facility would be strategically located on the 39-square-mile abandoned Dade-Collier airport within the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area in the Everglades.

This innovative approach relies on Florida’s natural ecosystem as a security measure, utilizing alligators, pythons, and dense swampland instead of traditional walls or fences. Uthmeier described the concept as “the one-stop shop to carry out President Trump’s mass deportation agenda,” highlighting Florida’s commitment to supporting immigration enforcement efforts.

Alligator Alcatraz: the one-stop shop to carry out President Trump’s mass deportation agenda. pic.twitter.com/96um2IXE7U

— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) June 19, 2025

Addressing Capacity and Budget Challenges

The proposed detention facility comes at a critical time when ICE facilities nationwide are experiencing significant overcrowding. Current ICE detention centers are holding approximately 53,000 illegal migrants, despite being funded for only 41,500 detention beds for $3.4 billion for fiscal year 2024.

“Alligator Alcatraz” could provide immediate relief to this situation by housing up to 1,000 illegal criminal entrants. The facility could potentially be constructed within 30-60 days, offering a rapid response to the current detention crisis.

ALLIGATOR ALCATRAZ. Under 287g authority, state and local law enforcement can now assist with immigration functions, including: arrests, transportation, and detention.

287g is a force multiplier in completing the President’s mission and making America safe again. https://t.co/qYvcrRek0L

— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) June 19, 2025

Practical Implementation and Strategic Benefits

According to Uthmeier, the location offers natural deterrents that escape attempts extremely difficult without requiring expensive security infrastructure. The surrounding Everglades create a natural barrier with its challenging terrain and indigenous wildlife, including alligators and pythons.

The proposal represents what Uthmeier calls a “low-cost, efficient opportunity” for immigration enforcement. This approach aligns with efforts to address ICE’s budget concerns, as the agency is currently running $1 billion over budget while facing increased demands from the White House to raise daily arrest quotas from 1,800 to 3,000.

Florida’s proactive stance on immigration enforcement demonstrates the state’s commitment to supporting federal efforts. The governor has tasked state leaders with identifying suitable locations for new temporary detention facilities, with “Alligator Alcatraz” emerging as Uthmeier’s top recommendation.

Sources:

• Florida Attorney General Proposes Hardcore Detention Center for Criminal Illegals — Surrounded by Alligators and Pythons (VIDEO) | The Gateway Pundit | by Jim Hᴏft

• Florida offers Trump ‘alligator Alcatraz’ to detain illegal migrants