Judge Orders Improvements at Chicago Immigration Facility Amid Inhumane Conditions

Fri Dec 05 2025 12:10:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A federal judge has expressed approval of ongoing efforts to improve conditions at a Chicago-area immigration detention center, which had been criticized for its inadequate facilities and treatment of detainees. Updates include more cleaning, the provision of bedding, and improved access to basic necessities.

U.S. District Judge Robert Gettleman has ordered changes at a federal immigration facility in Broadview, Chicago, following concerning testimonies from detainees. The facility will implement daily cleaning, provide mattresses and basic sanitation items while the government insists it is largely complying with these measures. Concerns over specific items like toothbrushes also arose, leading to skepticism about the changes. Plaintiffs still demand accessible communication with their clients, as ongoing scrutiny continues.

CHICAGO — A recent federal court ruling has mandated critical changes to the conditions at a Chicago-area immigration detention center, following alarming accounts of deteriorating sanitary conditions that detainees have described as 'inhumane.'

U.S. District Judge Robert Gettleman conveyed optimism regarding the government's progress in initiating significant changes to the facility located in Broadview, Illinois. These amendments include conducting regular cleanings, providing adequate bedding, and ensuring that drinking water and soap are readily accessible for detainees.

Gettleman's orders came after he heard several hours of heart-wrenching testimonies from detainees detailing overflowing toilets, overcrowded cells, and a lack of clean drinking water. He labeled the reported conditions as 'unnecessarily cruel,' emphasizing the need for immediate corrective action.

Despite claims from the government indicating compliance with the judge's directives, skepticism remains among plaintiffs' attorneys. They have expressed concerns regarding the lack of consistent communication avenues for their clients held within the facility and have requested a thorough inspection of the premises to ensure adherence to the new regulations.

Attorney Alexa Van Brunt, representing affected clients, highlighted the challenges that detainees face, such as non-functional phone lines. 'This has been an ongoing issue with serious consequences,' she stated, urging that effective communication must be established.

In a separate ruling earlier, Judge Sara Ellis ordered the immediate release of two lead plaintiffs in the case, citing their previous testimonies as integral to highlighting the pressing human rights violations present within the facility.

Amidst growing scrutiny from the public and advocacy groups, the story of the Broadview Immigration facility continues to unfold, pointing towards the urgent need for reform in the treatment of individuals detained within the U.S. immigration system.