SUMMARY: Lawmakers will tour Florida’s new migrant detention center, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” amid allegations of inhumane conditions. Immigration attorneys report detainees lack access to medicine, running water, and due process. Florida and White House officials deny these claims, calling them fake news and asserting the facility meets higher standards than most prisons. After a previous denied access citing safety concerns, a tour for state and federal lawmakers is scheduled with no press or staff allowed. Critics label the visit scripted, planning unannounced future inspections. Republicans applaud the transparency while Democrats push for unrestricted access and documentation to verify conditions.

Florida lawmakers are preparing to tour the state’s new migrant detention and deportation facility this weekend.

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SUMMARY: Several Democratic Florida state lawmakers filed a lawsuit against Governor Ron DeSantis and FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie after being denied entry to the “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention facility. The legislators argue the site qualifies as a state detention facility, granting them legal visitation rights. FDEM countered, stating their authority applies only to legislative committees, not individual lawmakers, and the facility isn’t a state correctional institution under Florida law. The suit seeks a court order forcing immediate access. The governor’s office called the lawsuit frivolous, noting an invitation had been extended for a weekend tour.

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The post Florida Democrats launch lawsuit against Gov. DeSantis over ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ access appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: James Elliott Davis, 36, of Ponte Vedra Beach, pleaded guilty to bank fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and theft of mail related to a COVID-19 PPE fraud scheme. From 2018 to 2022, he operated Medisale Inc., falsely claiming the company made significant profits selling PPE and held hospital contracts. Davis presented fake bank statements to investors and manipulated accounts to appear wealthy. He used investor funds to cover debts, fabricate profits, and pay personal expenses, including a luxury club membership and $27,000 on custom clothing. He faces up to 65 years in prison and must pay restitution.

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The post A man used fraudulent money to buy a membership at luxury club in Ponte Vedra. He just pleaded guilty in COVID-19 scheme appeared first on www.news4jax.com