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Corrections Officer at ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Arrested as Florida Shuts Down Controversial Detention Centre
Florida — As one of Florida’s most contentious immigration detention facilities prepares to close its gates, one of its own corrections officers has been arrested on a criminal charge.
Stephen Jordan Trejos, 24, who identified his employer as the state’s so-called “Alligator Alcatraz” detention centre, was arrested on Wednesday night and charged with misdemeanor battery, according to jail records.
Authorities have released few details about the alleged incident, and it is not yet clear whether the accusation is connected to his duties at the facility. Court records show the charge is a misdemeanor, and Trejos is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The arrest comes at an awkward moment for Florida officials, who have already begun winding down operations at the remote Everglades detention centre following months of political controversy, legal challenges and sustained criticism from civil rights organisations and environmental groups.
Built at the former Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, the facility quickly became a symbol of Florida’s hard-line approach to immigration enforcement. Supporters argued its isolated location strengthened security and deterrence. Opponents described it as an expensive and controversial project that raised concerns over detainee welfare and environmental impacts.
The timing of the arrest is likely to add further scrutiny to a facility that has rarely been far from the headlines.
Officials have not said whether Trejos remains employed by the detention centre or whether any disciplinary action has been taken since his arrest.
The battery charge remains pending, and investigators have not released additional information about the circumstances surrounding the case.
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