Full Breakdown
San Diego County Sues DHS for Access to Otay Mesa Detention Center
3/11/2026, 9:14:31 PM
Legal Action Initiated Over Denied Health Inspection
San Diego County has filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and CoreCivic, the private operator of the Otay Mesa Detention Center. This legal action follows the denial of access for a public health inspection requested by county officials, which they argue is necessary to address serious allegations regarding the facility's conditions. County Board Chair Terra Lawson-Remer emphasized the importance of transparency and public health oversight, stating, “We live in a nation that's governed by laws.”
The lawsuit was prompted by reports from detainees alleging freezing temperatures, untreated medical conditions, and food unfit for consumption at the facility. These claims have raised concerns about the health and safety of individuals held there, leading to the county's demand for a thorough inspection. The county's legal complaint asserts that the DHS's refusal to allow access is arbitrary and an abuse of discretion, violating both federal and state laws.
Background and Context of the Lawsuit
The conflict stems from an attempted inspection by county supervisors on February 20, 2026, which was blocked by national ICE authorities despite prior approval from local officials. California law, specifically AB 1801 enacted in October 2024, grants county public health officers the authority to inspect privately operated immigration detention facilities. San Diego County is the first to pursue this right legally, highlighting a broader trend among Democratic lawmakers seeking greater oversight of detention facilities.
Allegations of Poor Conditions
Detainees have reported various issues, including inadequate medical care and poor food quality. Milena Araya-Davis, a detainee, described the facility as “freezing” and recounted her experience of being denied medication for a pinched nerve during her initial days in custody. She also criticized the nutritional value of the meals provided, stating that they often consisted of non-nutritious options.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the lawsuit, a DHS spokesperson asserted that all detainees receive proper meals, water, and medical treatment, claiming that ICE facilities are regularly audited to ensure compliance with national detention standards. However, county officials argue that the lack of access to the facility prevents a full assessment of these claims.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the federal government's actions, including Supervisor Paloma Aguirre, argue that blocking public health inspections reflects a troubling trend of secrecy and lack of accountability in federal detention practices. Aguirre stated, “By blocking a legitimate public health inspection, federal officials and CoreCivic are choosing secrecy over safety.”
What's Next
The county plans to file a motion for a preliminary injunction, seeking immediate access to the Otay Mesa Detention Center while the lawsuit proceeds. This legal battle underscores the ongoing tensions between local authorities and federal agencies regarding oversight of immigration detention facilities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Transparency and public health oversight are not optional.” — Terra Lawson-Remer, San Diego County Board Chair
- “It was really scary, to say the least,” — Milena Araya-Davis, Detainee
