Florida Fights Lawsuit Against 'Alligator Alcatraz' | JQJO

Florida's emergency management director argued against an environmental lawsuit seeking to halt the "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention center, claiming improper jurisdiction. The lawsuit, filed in Miami-Dade County's southern district, targets the facility's construction in Collier County's middle district, where the actual building and decision-making occurred. Environmental groups contend substantial events happened in Miami-Dade, suggesting judge-shopping by the state due to the judge's recent ruling against Florida's Attorney General. A hearing on jurisdiction is set for July 30th, with a decision on a temporary restraining order delayed until August 6th. The facility, criticized for its environmental impact, has reportedly housed 900 detainees in three weeks.