ICE Detains Immigrants at Georgia Jail Amid Gynecological Procedure Misconduct Allegations

ICE to Detain Immigrants at Georgia Jail Embroiled in Medical Misconduct Scandal In a move that has raised concerns among advocates and attorneys, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to detain immigrants at the Irwin County Detention Center in Ocilla, Georgia, despite allegations of non-consensual gynecological procedures against women detained there. According to multiple sources, ICE officials confirmed to The Intercept that the agency will be using the facility, but it is unclear whether detentions have already begun. Attorneys and advocates familiar with ICE's operations in the state reported that the agency started temporarily detaining people at the facility on Friday, citing communication with ICE officials in Georgia. The Irwin County Detention Center drew national attention in 2020 when several detained women and a nurse-turned-whistleblower accused the facility of medical misconduct. The allegations included performing unnecessary surgeries, administering medication without consent, and subjecting detainees to invasive gynecological procedures. "We are extremely concerned about ICE's decision to use this facility again," said Rebecca Adducci, a lawyer who has represented clients at Irwin County Detention Center. "The history of medical misconduct here is well-documented, and it's unacceptable that the agency would ignore these concerns." A Senate Subcommittee on Investigations report in 2022 found that female detainees appeared to have been subjected to excessive, invasive, and unnecessary gynecological procedures. The investigation was sparked by allegations from a nurse who claimed that she had witnessed or participated in these procedures. The Biden administration stopped detaining immigrant women at Irwin County Detention Center in 2021 following the backlash. However, it appears that ICE is now reversing this decision, sparking concerns about the safety and well-being of detainees. "This move by ICE is a step backward for accountability and transparency," said Andrea Flores, policy director at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). "We urge the agency to reconsider its decision and prioritize the health and dignity of those in their care." The implications of this decision are far-reaching, with potential consequences for public trust in government institutions. As AI-powered technologies continue to transform industries, it is essential that we prioritize transparency, accountability, and human rights. ICE officials have not commented on the specific procedures or protocols they will use at Irwin County Detention Center. However, advocates and attorneys are calling for increased oversight and monitoring of detention facilities to prevent similar incidents in the future. As this story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the safety and well-being of detainees must be prioritized above all else. *Reporting by Theintercept.*