The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in partnership with the state of Nebraska, has announced plans to open a new 280-bed immigration detention center inside the McCook Work Ethic Camp. Nicknamed the “Cornhusker Clink”, the facility will hold immigrants awaiting deportation or pending immigration court cases.
The Nebraska National Guard is expected to support facility operations, signaling a new level of state-federal cooperation on immigration enforcement.
Community groups and immigrant advocates immediately raised concerns about civil rights, detainee treatment, and the unusual branding of the facility.
🔑 What’s Changing?
- New Detention Facility: 280 beds dedicated to immigration detainees in rural Nebraska.
- Military Involvement: Nebraska National Guard to provide operational support.
- Expanded Capacity: ICE gains more detention space at a time of increased enforcement actions.
🧾 What Are the Options Now?
- Immigrants in Nebraska & Midwest: May now be transferred to this facility instead of larger centers in Texas or Arizona.
- Families & Attorneys: Should prepare for long-distance travel to reach clients held in McCook.
- Advocacy Groups: Opportunities to monitor, challenge, or support detainees may expand locally.
⚠️ Important Reminders
- Detention centers often face lawsuits over medical care, conditions, and due process violations.
- The rural location may make it harder for detainees to access legal representation.
- Public backlash is growing—civil rights groups are already mobilizing for oversight.
