Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the “Deportation Depot,” a new facility at Baker Correctional Institution west of Jacksonville, set to hold 1,300–2,000 people in support of Alligator Alcatraz.
“We’re taking yet another step in supporting the important mission that President Trump was elected to implement of securing the border, enforcing immigration laws, and removing illegal aliens who are in our society now and sending them back to their home country,” DeSantis said at a press conference, mentioning the Department of Homeland Security would be reimbursing the state for the cost of operating the facility.
DeSantis said the unused portion of Baker Correctional Institution can be easily converted to hold deportation detainees and noted a nearby airport would allow faster ICE removals, though it’s less convenient than Alligator Alcatraz’s on-site runway.
“This is a priority for the people of our state. It’s a priority for the people of this country and I don’t want to see any more Angel Moms,” DeSantis added, referring in particular to mothers whose children are killed by illegal aliens.
Great to be in Sanderson today to announce that Florida’s new Deportation Depot will begin housing, detaining, and processing illegal aliens for deportation, in coordination with federal authorities.
With Alligator Alcatraz operating in South Florida and Deportation Depot… pic.twitter.com/l43j58GhFf
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 14, 2025
DeSantis announced the Deportation Depot as the Trump administration scores wins against sanctuary cities and human traffickers. Since opening in mid-June, Alligator Alcatraz has faced protests but deported hundreds of illegal aliens. The new facility also joins Indiana’s newly opened Speedway Slammer.
In recent months, the Trump administration sued New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago to force cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. A court dismissed the Chicago case for lack of standing, but cities like Washington, D.C., and Louisville have since rolled back pro-illegal immigrant policies.
