Local leaders are calling for the immediate closure of the Dilley ICE detention center, citing concerns over safety and medical response following measles outbreak.
DILLEY, Texas — Pressure is mounting to shut down the Dilley Immigration Detention Center after two confirmed measles cases were reported at the facility over the weekend.
Measles is highly contagious, and on Monday, Joaquin Castro said the outbreak highlights why the detention center should be closed immediately.
In a social media post just after 2:30 p.m. Monday, Castro said the facility is not equipped to manage an outbreak, pointing to what he described as a lack of medical preparedness, delayed response, and overcrowded conditions. He called for detainees who have not been diagnosed to be moved for their safety and for Texas medical officials, not federal immigration authorities, to oversee care.
Castro also raised concerns about the conditions facing families and Texas National Guard members stationed at the facility, saying they should not be exposed to unsanitary or unsafe environments.
State Rep. Josey Garcia echoed those concerns, posting her support for shutting down the facility and saying the people held inside deserve better treatment, particularly since they have not committed crimes.
The Department of Homeland Security responded Monday, saying all detainees are being monitored and that officials are taking what they called “appropriate and active steps” to prevent further infections.
The situation remains developing as health and government officials continue to monitor the outbreak.