Thompson, Markey, McGovern, Pressley, Carter Continue Investigation into Conditions at ICE Facilities After Hearing Allegations of Multiple Miscarriages
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, along with Senator Ed Markey and Reps. Jim McGovern, Ayanna Pressley, and Troy A. Carter Sr. announced they sent a letter to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) seeking more information on the detention conditions of immigrants held at the Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center (CLIPC) and the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center (SLIPC) after an oversight trip to the facilities last month. Both facilities have long faced allegations of inhumane treatment and poor detention conditions. During the visit, Members received allegations that detainees at the facilities have had miscarriages – and may not be receiving adequate maternal healthcare or proper cancer screenings.
Letter excerpt:
During our oversight visit to the facilities, we observed troubling detention conditions and received significant allegations about mistreatment from detainees. We heard from women who felt lumps in their breasts but were not provided appropriate medical attention; witnessed a pregnant mother with medical risks and detention staff unprepared for the birth of a child; observed men and women suffering respiratory issues in unreasonably cold and humid dormitories; and saw young women shaking and crying in fear of retaliation if they were to speak to Members of Congress.
While at SLIPC, we received conflicting information from staff about detainees’ allegations. For example, we received deeply troubling information alleging that multiple women at SLIPC suffered from miscarriages while in custody—allegations staff denied. Additionally, medical staff told us that during detainees’ menstrual periods, the facility provided as many menstrual products as requested, yet detainees consistently reported that facility employees regularly withheld not just menstrual products but also toilet paper.
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