Rep. Underwood Reveals ‘Terrible’ Conditions at Broadview ICE Facility

UPDATE: Rep. Lauren Underwood has just completed a groundbreaking tour of the Broadview ICE Facility, marking the first congressional visit in years amidst ongoing scrutiny over conditions there. The tour, which lasted over 90 minutes, took place on Monday, October 23, 2023, and was requested by Underwood for months.

During her visit, Underwood described the facility as “terrible,” stating, “It’s not a place where you want to spend time.” The Congresswoman reported that each holding cell contained a toilet that was inadequate and unsanitary. Her remarks come as the facility is undergoing security upgrades, with no detainees or officers present during her inspection.

Underwood, who serves as the most senior House Democrat overseeing funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), criticized the department for denying her access previously. “They said ‘No,’ several times. And yet, they want more money,” she stated, highlighting concerns over the treatment of immigrants and the need for facility improvements.

This urgent visit follows a federal judge’s order nearly three weeks ago mandating the facility to improve its conditions. The Midway Blitz operation has previously faced accusations of inhumane treatment, with reports indicating that dozens of individuals were housed under unacceptable circumstances.

“Government has gotten itself into a jam by rounding up as many people as they have without having facilities to maintain them at,” said Nate Eimer, a plaintiff’s attorney involved in ongoing litigation regarding the facility’s conditions.

Underwood’s staff was barred from taking photographs during the visit, intensifying concerns about the transparency of operations. “It left me feeling like there’s a lot of work that needs to be done,” she remarked, emphasizing the unacceptable treatment of both immigrants and U.S. citizens.

Despite claims that the facility is no longer housing individuals overnight, there are indications that the facility seeks to triple its staffing and expand office space. This raises concerns that immigration enforcement actions in Chicago could escalate in the near future.

As this situation develops, it remains clear that the conditions at the Broadview ICE facility require urgent attention and reform. Underwood’s revelations demand immediate action from authorities and raise critical questions about the future of immigration enforcement in the region.

Stay tuned for updates on this urgent issue as Congress continues to scrutinize the treatment of individuals in immigration custody.