The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has addressed recent claims about the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Dilley facility, stating that reports from some media outlets and sanctuary city officials are inaccurate.
According to DHS, the Dilley facility is specifically adapted for families. Children at the facility have access to teachers, classrooms, and educational materials covering subjects such as math, reading, and spelling. The facility also provides age-appropriate books, toys, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Infant care packages include formula, baby food, bottles, diapers, wipes, hygiene items, sippy cups, and cribs. Adults with children are housed in areas designed to meet their safety and medical needs.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis stated: “The media and sanctuary politicians have repeated false claims about the ICE Dilley facility including that children are denied medical care and don’t have educational resources. The truth is this facility provided proper medical care for all detainees including access to a pediatrician. Children have access to teachers' classrooms, books, and toys. The fact is being in detention is a choice. We encourage all parents to take control of their departure by using the CBP Home app and receiving a free flight home and $2,600.”
Each person arriving at the Dilley facility receives a comprehensive medical screening within 12 hours of arrival; infants and children are seen by a pediatrician during this process. Pediatric screenings cover growth and development as well as behavioral assessments. All evaluations address acute conditions along with mental health status—including suicide risk—pregnancy status for women, current medications or allergies, and any special needs.
Medical staff review any medications brought by families for continuity of care purposes while providing urgent or life-sustaining medications immediately if needed.
Full assessments for all detainees are completed within 48 working hours after admission. Immediate referrals or priority care are given to children, pregnant women, or residents with specific health vulnerabilities. If necessary, residents may be referred off-site for hospitalization or specialty consultations.
On-site medical professionals include physicians (including pediatricians), nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, psychologists/psychiatrists along with mental health coordinators and pharmacy staff.
Special dietary requirements or allergy accommodations can be arranged when needed.
Residents also have access to religious services through clergy visits; legal resources such as law libraries; attorney visitation; mail services; as well as privacy accommodations during their stay.
DHS reiterated its policy that remaining in detention is voluntary: “Being in detention is a choice. We encourage all parents to take control of their departure with the CBP Home App. The United States is offering illegal aliens $2,600 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream. If not you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”
