So far in fiscal year 2025, at least 13 immigrants have died in Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE) custody in the United States. Of these, five deaths occurred in Florida, making it the state with the most recorded deaths in detention centers.
Among the most recent cases is that of Isidro Perez, a 75-year-old Cuban who died at the Krome Detention Center in Miami after being taken to a hospital for chest pains. Another case is that of Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian with epilepsy, found dead in a federal prison used as a migrant center.
Demands transparency
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
It requested a detailed report of all deaths in ICE custody this year.
Including medical research and measures implemented to address “systemic errors”.
Levine Cava expressed his “deep and growing concern about the alarming number of deaths and medical emergencies occurring in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, particularly in facilities in Florida.”
Inhumane conditions
Activists and immigrant rights advocates have denounced inhumane conditions in ICE detention centers in Florida. At the Krome Detention Center, migrants, mostly Cubans, formed the ‘SOS’ distress signal with their bodies in June so that images could be captured from the sky.
Al menos 13 inmigrantes han fallecido bajo custodia del ICE en Estados Unidos
In addition, detainees have denounced the conditions they suffer in the immigration prison nicknamed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’.
Which the Florida government recently opened at an abandoned airport west of Miami, surrounded by reptiles in the Everglades wilderness area.
Protect yourself against raids and arrests
Buzzy
Know your rights: It is essential to be informed about your legal rights in the event of an arrest or raid.
Do not open the door without a warrant: Authorities need a warrant signed by a judge to enter your home.
3. Seek legal advice: Consult with immigration attorneys to understand your situation and legal options.
4. Keep important documents accessible: Keep IDs, medical records and legal documents handy in case of emergency.
5. Participate in workshops and seminars: Community organizations offer educational events on immigration rights and procedures.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
