California AG Bonta warns on ICE detention conditions, urges reforms

A new report from the California Department of Justice finds that all six privately operated ICE immigration detention facilities in the state continue to fall short in providing adequate mental health care, with documented deficiencies in suicide prevention, medical recordkeeping, and the handling of use-of-force incidents involving detainees with mental health conditions. The report highlights that some detainees spend months or even over a year in isolation, a practice particularly harmful to those with existing mental health issues. California's Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the persistence of these issues, noting that problems identified in previous reviews remain unresolved and have, in some cases, worsened as federal immigration enforcement is ramped up under President Trump. The detainee population in California has increased significantly, with over 3,100 people currently held, and the majority lacking any criminal record. The report also raises concerns about the reduction of federal oversight after the Department of Homeland Security closed offices responsible for investigating civil rights complaints and detention conditions. Operators of some facilities have disputed the findings, labeling them as politically motivated, but state officials insist continued scrutiny is necessary to protect detainee welfare.