Full Breakdown
Contractors Cited for Safety Violations in Worker Death at ICE Detention Center
4/14/2026, 1:53:53 AM
Overview of the Incident
Federal regulators have cited three subcontractors for safety violations related to the death of Hector Gonzalez, a 38-year-old worker who died on July 21, 2025, while constructing the Camp East Montana immigration detention center in El Paso, Texas. Gonzalez was killed when he was crushed by falling materials during a construction accident as contractors rushed to complete the facility. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated the incident and found serious violations, which were detailed in a report by the watchdog group Public Citizen.
Background on Camp East Montana
The Camp East Montana facility, located at Fort Bliss near the U.S.-Mexico border, was awarded a contract worth up to $1.3 billion to Acquisition Logistics, a company with no prior experience in running detention centers. The site opened in August 2025 and quickly became the largest ICE detention center, housing over 3,000 detainees at times. However, it has faced numerous allegations of inhumane conditions, disease outbreaks, and the deaths of three detainees in late 2025. Following these issues, ICE replaced Acquisition Logistics with Amentum Services as the prime contractor in March 2026.
Safety Violations and Regulatory Actions
OSHA's investigation into Gonzalez's death revealed that three subcontractors—Base International, JMJ Production Services, and Fulfillment Personnel Services—violated safety standards. These violations included exposing employees to “struck-by hazards” from unstable loads during the unloading of supplies. In February 2026, JMJ Production Services and Fulfillment Personnel Services agreed to pay reduced fines of $15,000 each as part of settlements with OSHA. Base International, however, is contesting its citation, which carries a proposed penalty of $11,585.
Key Figures Involved
Base International's CEO, who is also the head of Disaster Management Group, has been identified as a close associate of the Trump family and a significant campaign donor, contributing over $150,000 to Republican campaigns in 2025. Public Citizen's report highlighted this connection, raising concerns about the influence of political donations on federal contracting decisions.
Criticism and Opposition
Public Citizen researcher Douglas Pasternak criticized the situation, stating, “The Trump administration is doling out billions of dollars in taxpayer funds on contracts that have led to the deaths of four people in a six-month period. And things are not likely to improve.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns regarding the safety and oversight of federal contracts awarded for immigration detention facilities.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While OSHA has cited the subcontractors for safety violations, Base International is contesting its citation, claiming no wrongdoing occurred. The outcome of this appeal remains uncertain, as an administrative law judge may hold a hearing if a settlement is not reached.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Trump administration is doling out billions of dollars in taxpayer funds on contracts that have led to the deaths of four people in a six-month period.” — Douglas Pasternak, Public Citizen Researcher
- “Base International is appealing the ruling, because there was no wrongdoing by the company,” — Tom McNicholas, Spokesperson for Base International
This case highlights ongoing concerns about safety standards in the construction of immigration detention facilities and the implications of political connections in federal contracting.
