Demonstrators outside Alligator Alcatraz describe scene as ‘heartbreaking’ and ‘sad’

Demonstrators stand near the Alligator Alley sign on Saturday in Collier County. (Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.)

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. – Andrew Closson was among the civilians standing outside the Alligator Alcatraz on Saturday afternoon in Collier County.

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Closson, of Boca Raton, said that although he supports President Donald Trump he described what was happening at the detention center as a “sad situation.”

“I think in a couple of years it will backfire,” Closson said.

Angel Obrochta was among those who were there to demonstrate against the state’s 3,000-bed detention center in solidarity with the Seminole and Miccosukee tribe members.

“This is just an abomination ... It’s hearbreaking here,” Obrochta said.

Lesley Daunt said the facility makes her think of a “concentration camp.” She said she was worried about the impact on the local ecosystem and about the lawmakers’ lack of access.

“How are we going to get to the bottom of the truth if it’s a curated tour? It doesn’t make any sense. It is part of their job,” Daunt said.

A group of lawmakers was able to participate in a guided tour of the network of temporary structures in an area of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport.

This is a developing story.


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