Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs | https://www.dhs.gov/
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to a recent Washington Post article about conditions at the Camp East Montana detention facility at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, disputing several claims made in the report.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “As our brave ICE law enforcement is facing a more than 1000% increase in assaults the Washington Post is choosing to smear them. Here are the facts: any claim that there are ‘inhumane’ conditions at ICE detention centers are categorically false. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment, and have opportunities to communicate with lawyers and their family members. It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody. This is the best healthcare that many aliens have received in their entire lives. Meals are certified by dieticians. Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE.”
DHS addressed specific points from the article:
- On allegations that some people were held without basic necessities, DHS said all detainees receive food, water, medical care, bedding and clean clothing. The department described the facility as climate-controlled and adequately staffed.
- In response to claims about malfunctioning toilets and sinks during initial weeks of operation, DHS acknowledged temporary maintenance issues but said they were resolved immediately and access to hygiene facilities was maintained.
- Regarding outdoor recreation areas not being completed or accessible enough for detainees, DHS asserted that recreation is provided according to ICE standards.
- The report’s suggestion that detainees were underfed was denied by DHS, which said meals are reviewed by certified dieticians and detainees receive three meals daily.
- On medical care procedures allegedly not being followed by contractors—including incomplete charts or missed screenings—DHS maintained every detainee receives an intake screening and appropriate care.
- Addressing concerns about administration of psychotropic medication without consent or inadequate suicide watch documentation, DHS stated its staff follow federal guidelines on consent for treatment and observation protocols for segregation or mental health cases.
- With respect to staffing levels cited as insufficient compared to what was promised when inspectors visited in September, DHS said staffing scales with population size and meets safety requirements.
- On use-of-force policies for armed guards around the perimeter of Camp East Montana, DHS noted officers follow strict rules consistent with federal law; contract security staff review policies for alignment with those standards.
- Concerning legal visits reportedly being denied during August—including visits by Rep. Veronica Escobar—DHS explained tours occur after construction completion due to security needs; notice requirements for visitation apply equally to Congressmembers.
- Finally, on claims that detainees lacked information about their cases or assigned deportation officers, DHS stated all have access to lawyers and full due process.
