Infant hospitalized from Dilley Detention Center Amidst Renewed Concerns of inhumane Conditions
A baby detained at the Dilley, Texas, family detention center was hospitalized late Monday due to ongoing illness, including vomiting and respiratory problems, according to Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX). The incident has reignited concerns about conditions within the facility, were over 1,400 people, including approximately 400 children, are currently held.
Castro detailed the infant’s condition in a social media post, stating the baby has been “constantly sick” since arriving at Dilley. Local law enforcement confirmed they were called to the detention center on Monday, according to a spokesperson for the Frio County Sheriff’s Office, as reported by EFE.
The Dilley facility has faced repeated criticism from immigration lawyers who allege inadequate medical care, lack of educational resources for children, and the provision of spoiled food and water. These concerns are especially acute given the large number of minors currently detained.
The detention center was closed during much of President Joe Biden’s term (2021-2025) but was reopened by the management of former President donald trump as part of a broader effort to increase migrant arrests and deportations.
Data from the Deportation Data Project reveals a meaningful increase in the detention of migrant children under the Trump administration. Between January and October of this year, an average of 170 children were arrested monthly, a stark contrast to the average of 25 monthly arrests during the final 16 months of the Biden administration.
The hospitalization of the infant adds to a growing chorus of criticism regarding family detention practices in the United States. Advocates argue that detaining families, particularly vulnerable infants and children, is inhumane and detrimental to their well-being.
Sources:
* Deportation Data Project (referenced in original article – a link to the project itself would be ideal if available).