Ice Detention Center Coming to NC

North Carolina is preparing to launch its inaugural dedicated ICE detention center at the Rivers Correctional Institution located in Winton, Hertford County, following a five-year agreement with The GEO Group. Anticipated to commence operations by the end of 2026, this facility will feature more than 1,300 beds, positioning it as one of the largest immigration detention centers on the East Coast.

According to the news outlet, this facility would rank among the largest on the East Coast, accommodating 1,400 detainees upon its anticipated opening by the year's end.The NY Times initially reported in February that ICE intended to acquire and repurpose several warehouses in 21 cities across the United States to shelter illegal immigrants, including locations in Concord, Cabarrus County. Additionally, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) mentioned plans for a facility at the American Hebrew Academy in Greensboro, Guilford County, although both claims were unverified.

Futhermore, this facility is situated in North Carolina's competitive First Congressional District. The current incumbent, Democrat US Rep. Don Davis, is set to compete against Republican challenger Laurie Buckhout in the upcoming General Election in November. Some community members believe that the facility will provide much-needed employment opportunities in the area. The county, with a population of under 20,000, has a poverty rate of 23%, which is nearly double the state average.

Furthermore, Senators Phil Berger, R-Rockingham; Warren Daniel, R-Burke; and Buck Newton, R-Wilson, all backed SB 153, referred to as the "North Carolina Border Protection Act." This initiative focuses on immigration enforcement and is framed as a public safety measure aimed at improving cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Governor Stein strongly opposed this legislation, as well as the proposed detention center.