Critical Inspection Uncovers Unsafe Conditions at Immigration Detention Facility

Thu Apr 02 2026 21:17:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A recent inspection at Camp East Montana reveals alarming deficiencies that jeopardize the safety and wellbeing of detainees, highlighting urgent needed reforms in the facility's operations.

A three-day inspection of the Camp East Montana detention facility in El Paso, Texas, revealed 49 serious deficiencies that pose risks to detainees, including inadequate medical care and excessive force. Attorney Randall Kallinen criticized the facility and noted a significant death toll since its opening. U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar also expressed concerns about the facility's dire conditions, calling for accountability and reforms following the transition to a new contractor for improved oversight and care.

A recent inspection at the Camp East Montana immigration detention facility in El Paso, Texas, has uncovered numerous violations of national standards that threaten the safety of the detainees. The inspection, mandated by Congress, was carried out by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Office of Detention Oversight over three days in February and revealed a staggering 49 deficiencies, which the report categorizes as violations of detention standards. These deficiencies include issues related to the use of restraints, security measures, and inadequate medical care.

Attorney Randall Kallinen, representing the family of a detainee who died in January, remarked that the findings are damning, assigning the facility a failing grade. It’s very dangerous. Not only are the detainees at risk of excessive force, but they also face substandard medical and mental health care, he warned.

ICE's Actions Under Fire

These revelations come amidst a backdrop of systemic concerns regarding ICE's operations. Notably, the majority of detainees at Camp East Montana are men who have not been convicted of crimes. This facility has operated with nearly 3,000 detainees daily, marking it as the largest detention site in the US. Following the report, ICE paused plans to acquire additional warehouses intended to house more detainees, reflecting growing scrutiny over its operations.

Further compounding the issues, the facility’s previous contractor, Acquisition Logistics LLC, faced heavy criticism for its lack of experience and the emergence of safety lapses during its management. A change in personnel has now introduced Amentum Services to run Camp East Montana, with a contract that emphasizes enhanced medical care, staffing, and oversight.

Persistent Problems and Calls for Reform

Despite the changes, representative Veronica Escobar has voiced skepticism about potential improvements, stating that the inspection report reflects a mere fraction of systemic issues present within the facility. Escobar highlights detainees' consistent grievances regarding medical neglect. Observations noted that procedures to monitor detainee mental health were inadequately documented and that a detainee with tuberculosis symptoms was not isolated, risking further health complications.

In response to these findings, ICE has promised to enhance oversight and provide better services, yet doubts remain whether these actions will lead to substantive change. A comprehensive effort appears necessary to address long-standing grievances and improve the conditions at the Camp East Montana facility.