The Department of Homeland Security has unveiled plans for a new Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in the state of Indiana. Secretary Kristi Noem made the announcement earlier today, referring to the facility as the “Speedway Slammer.”
The new detention center will be located at the existing Miami Correctional Facility near Grissom Joint Air Reserve Base, approximately one hour’s drive north of Indianapolis. The facility is expected to expand detention capacity by 1,000 beds.
This development follows earlier reports of similar facilities being established in other states. The “Alligator Alcatraz” detention site in Florida’s Everglades was the first to receive such a colloquial designation. The Indiana facility’s name appears to be a reference to the nearby Indianapolis Motor Speedway, though official confirmation of this connection has not been provided.
Secretary Noem has indicated that Indiana Governor Mike Braun played a crucial role in facilitating cooperation between state law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. This partnership extends beyond the new detention facility, with plans for some state officers to be authorized to perform ICE enforcement actions.
Supporters argue that such facilities are necessary for effective immigration control, while opponents raise concerns about the treatment of detainees and the impact on local communities.
The Department of Homeland Security has also promoted a self-removal process for individuals in the country illegally, accessible through a mobile application. The long-term implications of these policies and their effectiveness remain to be seen.