A lively debate unfolded at a Tucson elementary school as over 200 residents gathered to discuss the potential establishment of an ICE detention facility in Marana. Concerned community members shared their insights and raised questions during a town hall led by Pima County Supervisor Jenn Allen.
Joanna Ryan, a military veteran with a decade of experience as a correctional officer in Tucson’s federal prison, voiced her opposition. “This is bad for Tucson, this isn’t what Tucson represents as a people,” Ryan remarked, pointing out issues such as inhumane conditions and inadequate healthcare affecting both detainees and staff.
Clement DeLarge, a long-time Marana resident and military veteran, expressed concerns about the potential impact on local communities, fearing increased ICE presence at schools and churches. “That’s going to change everything for everybody around here,” DeLarge noted, adding that community awareness about the event was limited.
Although specific plans remain uncertain, Marana officials have been approached regarding zoning for the facility. MCL, a company with operations in both prisons and ICE detention centers, has not yet clarified its intentions for the old Marana prison site.
Echoing concerns about immigration policies, Tucsonan Maximiliano Torres compared current deportation practices to Arizona’s controversial, now-repealed SB1070 law. “They criminalized coming across the border without authorization, which is a civil misdemeanor, it’s not a criminal act,” he explained.
Panelist Mo Goldman, an immigration attorney, highlighted the burden on the immigration system, with millions of pending cases handled by a limited number of judges. He raised an important question, “Who actually pays for the detainment of these individuals?” indicating that taxpayer money funds these private facilities.
Marana City Council member Patrick Cavanaugh acknowledged the community’s frustration but noted the town’s limited influence over the facility’s establishment.
Further town hall meetings may be scheduled as the community continues to seek answers and express concerns.
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