Former detainees to be interviewed as scrutiny grows over Adelanto ICE facility
Garrett Hottle
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) KESQ News Channel 3 is working to speak with former detainees from the Adelanto Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, as pressure mounts on federal officials over access, oversight and conditions inside the detention center.
The effort comes one day after Rep. Raul Ruiz said he was denied entry into the Adelanto facility during a planned visit, his second denied attempt in less than a year. Ruiz said he was seeking to investigate reports of overcrowding and inadequate care, and he called for the removal of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Ruiz said he provided advance notice of his visit and argued the denial prevents lawmakers from conducting oversight. ICE officials told Ruiz’s office he did not receive confirmation allowing entry, according to Ruiz.
The controversy arrives amid heightened scrutiny of immigration enforcement operations across Southern California and nationwide, with elected officials and advocacy groups demanding more transparency.