CHICAGO (AP) — Advocates from the Illinois chapter of the ACLU and the MacArthur Justice Center have taken legal action against federal authorities, alleging that conditions at a Chicago-area immigration facility are 'inhumane.' In a lawsuit filed on Friday, the advocates argue that individuals detained at the Broadview facility are denied private communication with their attorneys and access to members of Congress, faith leaders, and journalists, creating a 'black box' environment that has allowed authorities to act 'with impunity.'
Attorneys also accuse ICE of coercing detainees into signing paperwork they do not comprehend, which has resulted in the unintended relinquishment of their rights and potential deportation. ACLU director Alexa Van Brunt stated that the current treatment of residents includes being 'kidnapped off the streets' and essential necessities like food and medical care being denied.
The lawsuit is part of broader concerns about rising scrutiny towards the facility, which has been criticized by local representatives, political candidates, and activist groups.
Despite these serious allegations, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has maintained that individuals held at the facility receive adequate meals, medical care, and access to communication with family and attorneys.
Onlookers have also expressed outrage over the use of what has been deemed excessive force against peaceful protesters demonstrating against ICE practices.
U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis recently sided with a coalition of news outlets and protesters regarding the need for more transparency from federal agents, mandating the use of identification badges and banning certain aggressive crowd control tactics.
Attorneys for the lawsuit are seeking judicial intervention to compel federal agencies to enhance conditions at the Broadview center, insisting that the fundamental rights of detainees be upheld.
