Detention Centers and Immigration Facilities in North Carolina

How Many Immigration Detention Centers Are Located And Where Are They Situated in North Carolina?

There are two immigration detention centers located in North Carolina: the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, GA, and the Mecklenburg County Jail in Charlotte, NC.

What Is The Purpose Of Immigration Detention Centers And Who Is Typically Held There in North Carolina?

The purpose of immigration detention centers in North Carolina is to hold people pending deportation or other immigration proceedings. The individuals held in immigration detention centers typically include non-citizens who have been detained while attempting to enter the United States without legal authorization, those who are subject to deportation proceedings, and those who have violated the terms of their visa. In addition, those with criminal convictions may also be held in immigration detention centers.

Can You Explain The Conditions Within Immigration Detention Centers, Including Access To Medical Care, Legal Representation, And Basic Amenities in North Carolina?

The conditions within immigration detention centers in North Carolina vary depending on the facility. Generally, those detained have access to medical care, although legal representation and access to basic amenities may be more limited.

Medical Care: Most facilities provide basic medical care, including check-ups, screenings, and treatments for illnesses and injuries. In addition, some facilities offer mental health services and specialty care. Those with serious medical needs may be released from immigration detention or transferred to a hospital for treatment.

Legal Representation: Detainees have the right to access legal representation, though access to legal counsel may be more limited in certain facilities. Detainees should ask facility staff for assistance if they are unable to find an attorney.

Basic Amenities: Most facilities provide basic amenities such as meals, showers, and laundry services. Detainees also have access to recreation areas and telephones, though there may be restrictions on when those amenities can be used.

How Are Immigration Detention Centers Funded And Operated? Are They Managed By Private Companies Or Government Agencies in North Carolina?

Immigration detention centers in the U.S. are funded and operated by the federal government and managed by the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Private companies may be contracted to provide certain services, such as meals or medical care, within detention centers.

In North Carolina, immigration detention centers are managed by the ICE field office in Charlotte. The ICE regional office in Atlanta is responsible for policy decisions regarding detention centers in the state.

What Role Does The State Government Play In Overseeing And Regulating Immigration Detention Centers Within Its Jurisdiction in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the state’s Department of Public Safety has the authority to oversee and regulate immigration detention centers. The department is responsible for ensuring that these facilities meet all applicable standards of care and meet all applicable laws. This includes ensuring that federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regulations are followed and that all detainees are treated with dignity and respect. The department also inspects the facilities to ensure they are being operated properly and humanely, as well as making sure that any complaints about the centers are addressed promptly and properly.

Are There Any Local Or State-Level Policies That Impact The Operations Of Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

Yes, there are a number of local and state-level policies that impact the operations of immigration detention centers in North Carolina. These policies include:

1. The “North Carolina Immigration Detention Bill” which prohibits local law enforcement officers from enforcing federal immigration laws, with certain exceptions.

2. The “No Sanctuary for Criminals” law which requires state and local governments to comply with all federal immigration detainers.

3. The “Secure Communities Program” which requires local law enforcement agencies to conduct biometric checks of inmates in local jails to detect immigration violations and notify federal authorities.

4. The North Carolina “Safe Harbor Law” which prohibits local governments from taking action against individuals solely on the basis of their immigration status.

5. The “Immigrant Driver License Law” which allows certain immigrants who are not lawfully present in the United States to obtain a North Carolina driver license.

6. The “Unaccompanied Refugee Children Program” which provides specialized services for unaccompanied children who arrive in North Carolina seeking refuge from their home countries.

7. The “Immigration Bond Court Administrative Order” which requires a judge to review and make a ruling on all cases involving individuals being held in immigration detention centers within 24 hours of intake.

How Do Immigration Detention Centers Handle The Release Of Detainees, Either Due To Bond, Parole, Or Other Legal Processes in North Carolina?

When a detainee is released from immigration detention in North Carolina, they will be processed according to the laws and regulations that apply to their particular release. Generally speaking, this will involve the detainee being taken to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the relevant local Field Office to be interviewed and have the release paperwork completed. In cases where the detainee has been released on bond, parole, or other legal processes, they will also need to complete any required paperwork and obtain a Form I-94 prior to being released. They may also be required to have their biometric information (fingerprints) taken for security reasons. Once all documentation has been completed and approved, the detainee may be released from custody and will be free to travel. However, it is important to note that even after a detainee has been released they may still be subject to further immigration proceedings and be required to appear for scheduled hearings at USCIS or an immigration court.

Can You Provide Information About The Average Length Of Stay For Individuals Held In Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

According to the American Immigration Council, the average length of stay in immigration detention centers in North Carolina is approximately 41 days. As of January 2020, there are 2,792 individuals in detention in the state.

Are There Any Advocacy Or Community Groups That Monitor And Raise Awareness About Conditions In Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

Yes, there are several advocacy and community groups that monitor and raise awareness about conditions in immigration detention centers in North Carolina. These groups include Action NC, El Pueblo, FaithAction International House, Immigrant Rights Coalition of North Carolina, MomsRising NC, NC Immigrant Rights Project, NCCARE360, Orange County Immigrant Rights Alliance, Mecklenburg Immigration Coalition, and Alerta Migratoria NC. These organizations work to protect immigrants’ rights, provide legal services and resources for detained immigrants, and ensure that these detention centers are providing humane conditions.

How Does The Presence Of Immigration Detention Centers Impact Local Communities, Including Economic And Social Dynamics in North Carolina?

The presence of immigration detention centers in North Carolina has had a negative economic and social impact on local communities. On the economic side, the costs of maintaining immigration detention centers have been a burden for taxpayers in the state. The state has spent over $40 million in the last decade to compensate local governments for housing immigrants in detention centers. Furthermore, a study by the Fiscal Policy Institute found that the state’s detention centers contribute little or no economic benefits such as job growth or tax revenues.

On the social side, the presence of immigration detention centers has had a detrimental impact on local communities. The detention centers are often located in rural areas, creating an unwelcome presence in these communities. Additionally, the presence of deportation officers can lead to a heightened sense of fear and anxiety among immigrant communities. Furthermore, reports of substandard living conditions within some of these facilities has led to allegations of human rights abuses. These factors have created an atmosphere of mistrust and tension between immigrant communities and local governments.

Can Local Or State-Level Law Enforcement Agencies Enter Or Collaborate With Immigration Detention Centers For Any Purposes in North Carolina?

No, local or state-level law enforcement agencies cannot enter or collaborate with immigration detention centers for any purposes in North Carolina. The North Carolina General Assembly has expressly prohibited local law enforcement agencies from entering into or cooperating with federal immigration agencies. This prohibition is found in N.C.G.S. § 14-408.30A, which states:

“It is the policy of this State that State and local law enforcement officers shall not stop, question, arrest, search, or detain any person based solely on that person’s suspected immigration status, nor shall they investigate, interrogate, or make inquiries regarding a suspect’s immigration status.”

Therefore, under North Carolina law, local and state-level law enforcement agencies are prohibited from collaborating with immigration detention centers for any purpose.

What Resources Or Services Are Available To Detainees In Immigration Facilities, Especially Legal Aid And Support For Asylum Seekers in North Carolina?

Legal aid:
In North Carolina, several local legal aid organizations provide pro bono immigration legal services to detained individuals. These organizations include the North Carolina Justice Center, the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), and the Legal Aid of North Carolina.

Support for asylum seekers:
Various organizations in North Carolina offer support for asylum seekers. These organizations include Refugees Community Resource Center (RCRC), Restoration Immigration Legal Aid (RILA), Refugee Support Center (RSC), Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency (CRRA), and World Relief Raleigh. Each of these organizations provides supportive services such as legal advice, educational resources, employment guidance, and language training.

Other resources:
In addition to legal aid and support services, detainees in immigration facilities may have access to medical care, recreational activities, and educational programs. In addition, some facilities offer access to religious services and spiritual guidance.

Can Individuals Or Organizations Volunteer Or Provide Assistance To Detainees In Immigration Facilities in North Carolina?

Yes. There are several organizations that provide assistance to detainees in immigration facilities in North Carolina. These organizations provide legal services, educational programming, visitation services, and other forms of support. These organizations include the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Charlotte Chapter, American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), the NC Dream Team, and the Carolina Immigration Collaborative. Additionally, individuals can volunteer as individuals or with an organization to help provide assistance to detainees in immigration facilities in North Carolina.

Are There Any Alternatives To Detention Programs Implemented As An Alternative To Holding Individuals In Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

Yes, there are a few alternatives to detention programs that are being implemented in North Carolina as an alternative to detention centers. These alternatives include community-based case management programs, supervised release programs, and social service programs. Community-based case management programs involve a case manager working with the individual to ensure they meet any court requirements and are able to remain in the community. Supervised release programs involve ICE allowing individuals to remain in the community while under supervision, such as check-ins with ICE officers or daily phone calls. Finally, social service programs provide individuals with access to legal and social services, such as job training or housing assistance, to help them successfully transition back into the community following release from detention.

Can Detainees Access Communication With Family Members, Legal Representatives, And Other Individuals While In Immigration Detention in North Carolina?

Yes, immigration detainees in North Carolina have access to communication with family members, legal representatives, and other individuals while in immigration detention. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regulations, detainees in North Carolina have access to telephones, which they can used to contact family members, legal representatives, and other individuals. ICE facilities also provide for incoming and outgoing mail for detained individuals. Detainees are also allowed to submit requests for visitation by family members, friends, lawyers, or other representatives.

How Does The State Government Ensure That The Rights And Well-Being Of Detainees Are Upheld Within Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) has a specific set of standards that must be met to ensure the rights and well-being of detainees are upheld within immigration detention centers in North Carolina. These standards include: 24-hour monitoring of detainee health and safety conditions; appropriate access to medical care; providing due process rights to detainees; providing access to legal services; providing educational and recreational programs; and providing adequate food, clothing, bedding, and hygiene items. Additionally, NCDPS has a statewide complaint process for any detainee who feels that their rights or well-being have been violated while in the facility. Complaints can be filed with the Office of Professional Standards or with the Detention Complaint Unit. Complaints are investigated by the Office of Professional Standards and resolved through either a corrective action plan or through disciplinary action against staff. Furthermore, NCDPS has created an Immigration Detention Advisory Council (IDAC) to ensure that the rights and well-being of detainees are upheld. IDAC is composed of various stakeholders in the immigration detention system, including representatives from law enforcement, faith-based organizations, community groups, legal aid organizations, and public health departments. The council meets on a regular basis to review detention policies, practices, and procedures in order to promote the safety and welfare of detained immigrants.

What Procedures Are In Place To Address Complaints, Grievances, And Allegations Of Mistreatment Within Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

1. The Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the standards of care for individuals detained in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, including those in North Carolina. All individuals in ICE detention have the right to file a complaint or grievance with this office, regardless of their immigration status.

2. Individuals in North Carolina detention centers can also file a formal complaint with the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) or contact an ICE Ombudsman, a neutral third party who listens to complaints and makes sure that the proper procedures are followed when resolving grievances and allegations of mistreatment. An Ombudsman can also provide assistance to individuals regarding access to legal services and other resources.

3. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of North Carolina can provide legal assistance to individuals who are subjected to mistreatment or abuse in a detention center.

4. Detainees can file a complaint with the US Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division if they believe they have been subjected to a violation of their constitutional rights while in detention, such as excessive force or discrimination.

5. Detainees can also contact the North Carolina Immigrant Rights Project (NCIRP), a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the rights of immigrants in North Carolina, for legal advice and assistance.

Can Detainees Be Transferred Between Different Immigration Detention Centers, And How Is This Process Regulated in North Carolina?

Yes, detainees can be transferred between different immigration detention centers in North Carolina. The process is regulated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE must follow all applicable laws and regulations when transferring a detainee between facilities, including providing the detainee with advance notice of the transfer, ensuring appropriate transportation of the detainee, and providing necessary medical care and other services related to the transfer. Additionally, ICE must ensure that any transfer is conducted in a manner that is safe and secure for both the detainee and any personnel responsible for escorting the detainee.

How Does The Federal Government And State-Level Agencies Collaborate Or Interact With Regard To Immigration Detention Centers in North Carolina?

The federal government and state-level agencies collaborate in several ways when it comes to immigration detention centers in North Carolina. Federal agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), provide funding and resources for state-level agencies to operate immigration detention centers. These federal agencies also provide support and guidance to state-level agencies in terms of setting policies, providing training for personnel, and overseeing standards for the detention centers. The state-level agency, in this case, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NC DPS), is responsible for operating and managing the immigration detention centers, including establishing protocols for the care of detainees. The state-level agency is expected to comply with all relevant federal laws and regulations related to immigration detention centers. In addition, the state-level agency works closely with local law enforcement and other local organizations to provide services to detainees.

Where Can Concerned Individuals, Advocacy Groups, And Communities Access Accurate And Up-To-Date Information About Immigration Detention Centers And Facilities in North Carolina?

The American Immigration Council (AIC) provides a comprehensive list of resources for individuals seeking information on immigration detention centers and facilities in North Carolina. This list includes contact information for organizations that can provide legal assistance, fact sheets, and other resources. Additionally, the AIC has compiled an overview of the state’s immigration detention system and a map of all the detention centers in the state. The Immigrant Legal Resource Center also has resources pertaining to immigration detention centers in North Carolina, including contact information for organizations offering legal services. Finally, the North Carolina Immigrant Rights Project provides additional resources related to the state’s immigration detention system.