Overview of Adelanto Detention Center: Conditions of Detention and How to Secure ReleaseIntroductionAdelanto Detention Center is one of the most well-known immigration detention centers in the United States. Since its opening, it has been the subject of much controversy, as many individuals attempting to cross the border from Mexico end up detained there. Despite the difficulties, there are options for release, and in some cases, detainees can obtain legal refugee status or even U.S. residency.
In this video, we will review key details about the center, how detainees can achieve release, and how to properly prepare a release application for your loved one.
General Information about Adelanto Detention CenterLocation and HistoryAdelanto Detention Center is located at 10400 Rancho Road, Adelanto, California 92301, USA. It was opened in 2011 after the eastern section was acquired in 2010 and began functioning as an immigration detention center in May 2011. The western section was completed in 2012. The center has a capacity to hold approximately 1,940 detainees.
Who is Held at the Center?Adelanto Detention Center holds only men who are accused of violating immigration laws. The primary purpose of this center is to detain individuals awaiting deportation or asylum decisions.
Management and OperatorThe facility is operated by the GEO Group, which manages it under a contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Historical Events and ControversiesSince its opening, Adelanto Detention Center has faced criticism for its detention conditions. In 2015, 400 detainees went on hunger strike demanding improvements in medical care and food quality. In 2018, ICE inspectors found serious violations, including inadequate medical care and security issues.
In addition, in 2016, a class-action lawsuit was filed,
Hernandez v. Sessions, which demanded that detainees' financial capabilities be considered when setting bond conditions.
Conditions and Infrastructure of Adelanto Detention CenterFacility ConditionThe center consists of two buildings covering a total of 408,316 square feet, including a medical block, libraries, kitchens, dining areas, and visitation zones. However, in some areas, outdated furniture and lack of personal space are observed.
Cleanliness and Sanitary ConditionsCleaning is done three times a week, which does not meet ICE standards. Reports mention dirt, expired food, and other sanitation violations. Detainees frequently complain about the quality of food.
Exercise Areas and HygieneThe center has limited physical activity areas, and access to them is strictly controlled. Detainees have access to showers, clean water, and basic hygiene supplies, but shortages of some items have been reported.
OvercrowdingAt times, the facility is overcrowded, which affects the comfort and safety of detainees.
Sleeping ArrangementsDetainees are housed in shared rooms or dormitories, often with 4-8 people per room.
Daily Routine and RegulationsDaily Schedule- 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM: Lunch
- 4:45 PM - 5:30 PM: Dinner
- Free time is provided between meals, during which detainees can engage in physical exercise in designated areas.
Phone Calls and VisitationDetainees are allowed to make several phone calls per day, with each call lasting up to 15 minutes. Visitation is allowed by appointment only and is subject to strict security protocols.
RestrictionsMovement within the center is tightly controlled. Detainees are required to carry identification and adhere to strict disciplinary rules.
Medical Care and SecurityMedical CareAdelanto Detention Center frequently receives complaints about inadequate medical care, with long wait times for basic medical attention. There have been cases where detainees waited for months to receive treatment.
SecurityThe center is equipped with surveillance cameras and security personnel; however, complaints of violence and neglect by staff have been reported. Detainees are categorized based on gender, age, and risk level.
Statistics and Data- Average Length of Detention: In 2023, the average length of detention was 37.5 days.
- Deportations: In 2022, approximately 1,000 people were deported from the center.
- Releases: About 44% of detainees were released under supervision or for other reasons.
- Asylum Success Rates: Success rates for asylum applications are significantly lower than the national average. For example, in 2015, only 5% of asylum claims were granted.
How to Secure Release from Adelanto Detention Center?- Posting Bond
- Most detainees can be released by paying a bond set by ICE or an immigration judge. The bond amount varies depending on the individual's case, including their flight risk and whether they are considered a threat to the community.
- Filing for Asylum
- Detainees can apply for asylum, but this process requires legal support and the submission of evidence to support their claim.
- Humanitarian Release
- Detainees with serious medical issues or other exceptional circumstances may apply for humanitarian release. Documentation such as medical records is required to support the request.
- Legal Assistance
- Organizations like the ACLU provide free assistance to detainees in filing applications and petitions. Legal representation is crucial to improving the chances of release.
Sample Release ApplicationWhen submitting an application for release, it is important to:
- Describe the reasons why your loved one needs to be released.
- Attach supporting evidence, such as medical records or family documents.
- Highlight any special circumstances, such as threats to life or health.
ConclusionAdelanto Detention Center is a place where detention conditions demand active efforts for change. To secure release, it is necessary to take proactive steps with legal services, send letters, make calls, and send emails. The more persistent you are, the higher the chances of successful release.
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