Families Speak Out Against Harsh Conditions at Krome Detention Center

Family members of detainees at Krome Detention Center are raising concerns over alleged inhumane conditions inside the facility.

A viral video shows detainees sleeping on the floor, with one man pleading for help, citing a severe lack of food. Maria Bilbao of the American Friends Service Committee confirmed speaking with the man, identified as Osiris, who was later deported to Mexico. She claims he endured days without water while being held at Krome.

Marlene Amador Costafreda, whose fiancé was transferred to Krome from Tampa Correctional Facility, is also speaking out. “I understand he has to serve his time, but the treatment they’re getting is unacceptable,” she said. “There’s no air conditioning, people are sick, and there’s no medical care or even access to a proper bathroom.”

Concerns about Krome’s conditions are not new. In February, Telemundo 51 reported that a Ukrainian man died after allegedly falling ill at the facility and not receiving adequate care.

In response, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) acknowledged overcrowding but maintained that they are taking steps to manage capacity while ensuring humane treatment. ICE says detainees are being transferred to other facilities, and case processing is being expedited.

For families, these reassurances provide little comfort. “They won’t answer our questions, so we don’t know where he stands,” Costafreda said. “At least he was able to call me last night—I know he’s still alive.”