New ICE Detention Facility Opens in Appleton, Minnesota

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has opened a new 1,600-bed facility in Appleton, Minnesota, for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. This facility, formerly a state prison, was purchased by DHS and is now operated by CoreCivic for the federal government. The move aims to provide immediate capacity for detaining and removing individuals who do not have a legal right to remain in the United States.

The facility is intended to hold both adult men and women. While it is expected to be fully operational by mid-2027, initial detainee arrivals have already been reported. This new center is designed to house individuals from Minnesota and surrounding areas served by ICE’s Minneapolis office, with an average expected stay of 35 to 65 days. Previously, individuals detained by immigration authorities in Minnesota were held in local jails or sent to facilities outside the state.

Facility Operations and Contract Details

The former Prairie Correctional Facility was bought by DHS from CoreCivic in August for $496 million. CoreCivic, the company that previously operated the prison, has retained the role of managing the new detention center. The federal government has entered into a five-year contract with CoreCivic, valued at $536 million, to operate the facility.

The intake process is planned to be gradual. The initial phase called for 150 detainees in the first week, with subsequent weekly increases of 250 individuals. This phased approach is intended to bring the facility to its full operational capacity by mid-2027. The facility’s purpose is to increase ICE’s ability to detain and remove individuals, thereby protecting communities and reinforcing border integrity without the lengthy process of constructing new facilities.

Community Response and Advocacy Efforts

The opening of the detention facility has prompted a range of reactions and actions from local communities and advocacy groups. Misty Butler of the Prairie Alliance for Human Dignity reported observing buses arriving and increased security at the site, indicating the initial arrival of detainees. The ACLU has also confirmed that at least one person is being held at the facility, though the total number of detainees has not been publicly disclosed.

Community members and organizations are organizing to address concerns about the facility. An interfaith vigil and rally are scheduled for November 14 at the Appleton Civic Center grounds. These events aim to bring attention to the detainees’ rights and advocate for humane treatment. The Prairie Alliance for Human Dignity is calling for a public oversight board to monitor the facility’s operations and ensure accountability.

Legal Advocates Seek Access and Support

Legal advocacy groups are working to provide assistance to detainees. The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota is expanding its detention team to gain access to the facility. Their goal is to ensure that detainees receive accurate legal information, understand their rights, and receive advice on potential forms of legal relief.

Tracy Roy, legal director for the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, stated that their priority is to connect detainees with legal resources. Detainees or their families can contact the organization’s detention line for assistance. The ICE detention locator is also available for those seeking to find an individual in ICE custody, provided they have the person’s Alien Registration Number (A-number).

Scrutiny Over Property Value and Tax Implications

The purchase price of the former prison has drawn scrutiny from local observers. Swift County records indicate the property’s assessed value was $75 million, significantly lower than the $496 million DHS paid. CoreCivic had previously offered to sell the property to the state for $75 million in May 2025, an offer that was declined. CoreCivic defended the federal purchase price, stating it reflected independent appraisals that considered various factors, including replacement costs and renovations.

Concerns have also been raised regarding property tax revenue. As a federally owned property, the detention facility is exempt from local property taxes. This exemption means that the local government will not receive tax revenue from the facility, which could impact community finances. CoreCivic anticipates generating over 500 jobs and an estimated $75 million in annual revenue from the Appleton operation.

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