Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled plans to open a second immigration detention facility in the state, this time at the Baker Correctional Institution, located about 43 miles west of Jacksonville.

Expanding Capacity for Immigration Detention

The new facility is expected to provide 1,300 detention beds, with the possibility of expanding up to 2,000 beds in the future. State officials say this expansion is aimed at increasing the capacity to detain and process immigrants for deportation.

This announcement comes shortly after the state opened its first dedicated immigration holding center at an isolated airstrip in the Florida Everglades, nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz.” That facility has drawn national attention as a federal judge considers its legal standing.

“Deportation Depot” and Federal Collaboration

The Baker Correctional Institution site has already been dubbed the “Deportation Depot” by the state. Governor DeSantis explained that the decision aligns with what he describes as a growing need from President Donald Trump’s administration to hold and deport more immigrants.

“There is a demand for this,” DeSantis said. “I’m confident it will be filled.”

Political and Legal Implications

The move underscores Florida’s increasingly aggressive stance on immigration enforcement under DeSantis’ leadership. While supporters view it as a necessary measure to strengthen border security and enforce immigration laws, critics have raised concerns about human rights, due process, and the costs of operating such large-scale detention facilities.

Looking Ahead

With the Everglades center already operational and the Baker facility now in the planning stages, Florida is positioning itself as a central hub for immigration detention in the southeastern United States. The coming weeks may bring legal developments as the courts weigh the future of “Alligator Alcatraz” and other state-led immigration initiatives.