• Family detention policies return under renewed contracts, impacting immigrant families at Texas facilities.
• Critics highlight severe mental health risks for detained children, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm.
• Advocates call for alternatives, warning of lifelong impacts on child welfare and wellbeing.

The return of family detention policies under the Trump administration is sparking heated debates. Last week, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resumed detaining immigrant families at a South Texas facility. This move follows a pause during the Biden era, with nonprofit groups now working to support impacted families.

Families Facing Detention Again

According to RAICES, a legal organization assisting migrants, 14 families with children as young as one year old are currently being held at the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center, located about 50 miles outside San Antonio. These families come from diverse countries like Colombia, Romania, and Angola. Some have been in the U.S. for just weeks, while others have been here for over a decade.

Critics argue the return of family detention intensifies challenges faced by immigrant children. Dr. Alan Shapiro, cofounder of Terra Firma National, described severe cases of mental health issues among detained children, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts. He recalls, “We saw children experiencing anxiety, anger, and depression that was not present before detention.”

Facility Details and Contracts

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The Karnes County center, operated by Geo Group, has space for 1,328 people and generates millions in federal revenue. Another family detention center in Dilley, Texas, run by CoreCivic, can hold up to 2,400 individuals. Both companies recently renewed contracts to house families until at least 2029.

This controversial policy isn’t new—both the Obama administration and President Trump previously detained families awaiting immigration hearings. However, concerns over child welfare and ethical considerations have led to sharp criticism.

The Human Cost of Detention

Advocates warn that detention centers are not suitable for children. Dr. Shapiro pointed out that many young detainees develop eating disorders, physical health problems, and mental health conditions as a result of their environment. These are issues advocates argue could have lifelong impacts.

Meanwhile, the federal government and private contractors maintain that these facilities meet legal and humanitarian standards. Geo Group, which runs the Karnes facility, claims it will earn $79 million in its first year under the renewed contract.

What’s Next?

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As family detention policies return, immigration advocates and policymakers continue to debate their impact. The Dupree Report will keep you updated as this story develops.

Share your thoughts below! What do you think about the resumption of family detention? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this article with friends and family. Stay informed with The Dupree Report for the latest news and updates.

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