Maryland Sues to Halt ICE Detention Center

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 7:16 GMT by WTOP News
      Locales: Maryland, District of Columbia, UNITED STATES

Maryland's Legal Battle Over Washington County ICE Detention Center Escalates

HAGERSTOWN, Md. (WNEW) -- Maryland's legal challenge to the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Washington County has intensified, setting the stage for a protracted legal battle that extends beyond environmental concerns to encompass broader questions of state sovereignty and the future of immigration enforcement. Attorney General Anthony Brown's lawsuit, filed Monday, seeks to halt the project, alleging violations of state environmental laws and deficiencies in the permitting process. The lawsuit names Washington County, CoreCivic - the private company contracted for construction and operation - and ICE as defendants.

The planned facility, approved by county commissioners in December, was projected to break ground in early 2026. Proponents, including Commissioner Donald Shade, tout the economic benefits, promising job creation and increased tax revenue for a region grappling with economic stagnation. However, the project has ignited fierce opposition from immigrant rights groups, environmental advocates, and a growing number of local residents who fear its impact on the community's character and ecological integrity.

The core of the Attorney General's argument rests on the inadequacy of the environmental impact statement (EIS). The suit alleges that the EIS failed to thoroughly assess the potential harm to the region's delicate ecosystem, specifically focusing on nearby waterways like the Potomac River and its tributaries, and the diverse wildlife that inhabit the area. Concerns center around potential water contamination from facility runoff, the disruption of natural habitats during construction, and increased strain on local resources. Critics point to a history of similar facilities experiencing environmental violations, raising questions about CoreCivic's commitment to responsible environmental practices.

However, the legal fight is likely to extend beyond environmental issues. The lawsuit implicitly raises questions about the state's authority to regulate facilities operating under federal jurisdiction. Maryland officials argue that even federal agencies like ICE are subject to state environmental laws, particularly when constructing facilities within state borders. This jurisdictional dispute is becoming increasingly common as states push back against federal policies, particularly in areas like immigration.

The selection of CoreCivic, a for-profit prison company, has further fueled the controversy. Opponents highlight the company's history of substandard conditions in other facilities, raising concerns about the welfare of detainees. The involvement of a private company also raises questions about accountability and transparency, with critics arguing that profit motives may override concerns for human rights and environmental protection.

The proposed detention center is part of a broader national trend of increasing ICE detention capacity. While ICE maintains the need for these facilities to enforce immigration laws and detain individuals awaiting deportation, critics argue that the system is inhumane and costly. They advocate for alternatives to detention, such as community-based supervision programs, which they claim are more effective and less expensive. The Washington County facility is planned to house up to 800 detainees, potentially becoming one of the largest ICE detention centers in the region.

The lawsuit arrives amidst growing national debate about immigration policy and enforcement. The Biden administration has pledged to reform the immigration system, but has faced challenges in balancing enforcement with humanitarian concerns. The construction of new detention facilities like the one proposed in Washington County often clashes with these stated goals.

Legal experts predict a complex and lengthy court battle. Washington County officials, backed by CoreCivic, are expected to vigorously defend the project, arguing they have met all legal requirements. ICE has remained silent on the matter so far, but is likely to intervene in the proceedings to protect its interests. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for future ICE detention projects across the country, potentially setting a precedent for state oversight and environmental regulations.