Rights Groups Detail Beatings, Neglect At ICE Camp East Montana In Texas
Human Rights Watch and the ACLU released an 84-page report on conditions at ICE's Camp East Montana at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.[1]
Of 71 detainees interviewed over a five-month period, 64 said they had been beaten by staff or had witnessed other detainees being beaten, the groups reported.[1] The report cites at least three deaths since the camp opened in August 2025.[1] One death involved a 55-year-old Cuban migrant whose restraint-related death was ruled a homicide and whose investigation showed missing or destroyed evidence.[2]
ICE replaced prime contractor Acquisition Logistics LLC in March 2026 after an internal review documented 49 detention-standard deficiencies and ended a deal worth up to $1.3 billion.[1] Detainees interviewed through June 2026 described filthy, flooded housing units, lack of soap, restricted access to lawyers and family, and long delays between poorly prepared meals.[1]
The report urges independent investigations, stronger oversight and immediate changes to care and staffing at Camp East Montana to address what the groups called widespread abuse and neglect.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Human Rights Watch and the ACLU issued an 84-page report on conditions at ICE's Camp East Montana facility at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas.
- Of 71 detainees interviewed over a five-month period, 64 (about 90%) said they had been beaten by staff or had witnessed other detainees being beaten.
- The report and prior investigations cite at least three deaths since the camp opened in August 2025, including a 55-year-old Cuban migrant whose restraint-related death was ruled a homicide and whose case the GAO says involved missing or destroyed evidence.
- ICE in March 2026 replaced prime contractor Acquisition Logistics LLC, which held a deal worth up to $1.3 billion, after an internal review documented 49 detention-standard deficiencies.
- Detainees interviewed through June 2026 describe ongoing problems, including filthy and flooded housing units, lack of soap, restricted access to lawyers and family, and long delays between poorly prepared meals.
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