ICE Replaces Detention Facility Contractor Amid Criticism of Conditions

Mon Mar 16 2026 18:34:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement will replace its contractor at Camp East Montana, El Paso's largest detention facility, in response to numerous allegations of human rights abuses and mismanagement.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced the termination of its contract with Acquisition Logistics, LLC, the contractor managing the troubled Camp East Montana detention facility in El Paso, Texas. The agency will switch to Amentum Services, Inc. to enhance care and conditions following widespread criticism and reports of overcrowding and medical neglect. With a population of nearly 3,000 detainees, Camp East Montana has faced scrutiny over its living conditions and recent incidents. The new contract aims at improved standards and accountability as ICE seeks to address concerns raised by lawmakers and advocates.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the termination of its contract with Acquisition Logistics, LLC, which managed the Camp East Montana detention center in El Paso, Texas. This decision comes amidst increasing scrutiny over the facility's inhumane conditions as it struggled to manage the needs of nearly 3,000 detainees.

The facility, which has been the subject of numerous reports detailing overcrowding, medical neglect, and insufficient food, will now be serviced by Amentum Services, Inc., a company with prior experience in providing support to federal agencies. A federal notice confirmed this change following consultations that emphasized the need for better medical and psychological support for those detained.

Issues at Camp East Montana have been further compounded by reports of malnutrition and fear amongst detainees due to aggressive security measures. Recent outbreaks of measles and two reported deaths have raised alarms among lawmakers, prompting calls for the facility's closure.

Rep. Veronica Escobar, who represents the El Paso district, expressed cautious optimism about the transition to Amentum but remains concerned about the persistent issues at the facility. Escobar has advocated for investigations into the previous contractor for what she describes as fraudulent practices against taxpayers.

Amentum's contract is positioned as a temporary solution lasting 180 days, designed to meet operational needs while establishing a higher standard of care and accountability. The company, based in Virginia, has extensive experience with military and government contracts and aims to rectify the failures observed under the previous contractor.

The ongoing situation at Camp East Montana is part of ICE's broader strategy to expand detention capability nationally, with plans that include larger facilities capable of housing thousands more detainees. Critics, including Escobar, oppose these expansions, labeling them tools for perpetuating inhumane treatment of individuals in the immigration system.