Overview
- Advocacy group Hagerstown Rapid Response shared photos of dozens of black SUVs at the Williamsport warehouse, where DHS signs and traffic barriers were posted.
- ICE confirmed it purchased the 54-acre property on Jan. 16 for $102.4 million and says the site will operate to the agency’s detention standards.
- DHS communications cited by Washington County describe a 1,500-bed processing facility with holding areas, visitor space, medical care, cafeterias, fencing, lighting, cameras, recreation areas, and possible tentage and guard shacks.
- Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown filed a federal lawsuit to pause construction and operation, alleging violations of the National Environmental Policy Act and lack of public input.
- Washington County officials say they cannot legally block the project; commissioners passed a resolution backing ICE enforcement as lawmakers and local groups press concerns about infrastructure, safety, and detainee welfare.