Maryland Lawmakers Blocked From Touring ICE Facility as Lawsuit Alleges Inhumane Conditions

July 28, 2025

Maryland officials, including Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks along with several Representatives, were denied access to a Baltimore ICE detention facility during a scheduled visit on Monday despite having legal authority to inspect federal facilities. The lawmakers sought the tour following concerning reports and a federal class-action lawsuit alleging inhumane treatment of detainees, including holding people in windowless rooms for up to 60 hours—far exceeding ICE's 12-hour maximum policy. Detainees have reportedly been denied adequate food, water, and vital medications, with advocates rallying for accountability.

Who is affected

Immigrant detainees held at the Baltimore ICE facility
Two Maryland women who filed a federal lawsuit after being held for 60 and 48 hours respectively
Other detainees reportedly denied food, water, and critical medications
Family members of detainees, including a father whose daughter was detained for several days
Immigrants held in similar conditions at ICE facilities in New Jersey and Florida

What action is being taken

A federal class-action lawsuit has been filed against ICE by the Amica Center and National Immigration Project
Maryland lawmakers are attempting to inspect the Baltimore facility
CASA and the Amica Center are holding rallies demanding accountability
Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks have sent a letter to homeland security officials expressing concerns
Civil rights groups are demanding closure of facilities with similar conditions in other states

Why it matters

The alleged conditions violate ICE's own 12-hour maximum holding policy and basic human rights standards
Denying congressional members access to inspect federal facilities violates federal law
Detainees are reportedly being denied basic necessities including food, water, and critical medications
Similar patterns of alleged mistreatment exist at multiple ICE facilities across different states
The situation represents what Senator Alsobrooks described as conduct that will bring lasting shame to the country

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer