Key facts
- Congressional Democrats sent a scathing letter to ICE and DHS regarding conditions at El Valle detention facility.
- Detained immigrants are on a hunger strike, claiming retaliation and threats of force-feeding.
- Lawmakers cite substandard medical care, undrinkable water, and mistreatment allegations.
- DHS and ICE deny threats of force-feeding and state detainees are provided meals and water.
- The El Valle facility is operated by Management and Training Corporation (MTC).
Congressional Democrats have sent a scathing letter to federal immigration officials this week, demanding answers about conditions inside a Texas immigration jail where detained immigrants on a prolonged hunger strike claim officials are retaliating against them and threatening them with force feeding. The El Valle detention facility in Raymondville, Texas, has faced scrutiny for allegations of harsh conditions, including substandard medical care, undrinkable water, and mistreatment by guards. The lawmakers stated that such conditions violate documented detention standards. In response, a DHS spokesperson suggested the representatives should thank law enforcement for removing dangerous criminals rather than vilifying them. ICE denied allegations of threats and force-feeding, stating that detainees are provided meals and water.