Amnesty International’s April 2025 visit to the El Paso Service Processing Center (EPSPC) revealed widespread human rights violations against detained immigrants, underscoring broader abuses under the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Based on interviews with 27 people who are detained as well as local legal and humanitarian organizations, the organization documented systemic mistreatment, arbitrary detention, and a disregard for international and U.S. human rights standards.
Arbitrary detention: Many people reported being held arbitrarily, despite having strong asylum claims or long-term U.S. residency. Individuals fleeing violence and persecution were detained without explanation, often transferred between facilities, and denied access to legal counsel and communication with family members.
Violation of right to due process and lack of legal resources: Amnesty also highlighted violations of due process. The termination of the DOJ’s Legal Orientation Program and loss of funding for legal aid organizations have left many people without legal representation. People who are detained frequently reported being denied access to legal information and the law library, and some lacked any information about their cases.
Targeting Venezuelan individuals: Amnesty International heard reports of Venezuelans being disproportionately targeted under the Alien Enemies Act. Amnesty found that some were labeled as gang-affiliated without evidence, subjected to solitary confinement, and abused by guards—solely based on nationality or appearance.
Inhuman detention conditions: Conditions at EPSPC were described as inhumane, with overcrowding, unsanitary facilities, inadequate medical care, and expired food.
Amnesty International is calling on the U.S. government to end mass immigration detention, uphold the right to legal counsel, and stop targeting Venezuelans. It urges Congress to halt funding for systems that violate rights and calls for immigration policies that comply with international law, guarantee due process, and prioritize humane treatment.