Federal judge blocks ICE detention facility construction in Maryland
Mar 11, 2026·Location: Williamsport, MD

A federal judge granted a preliminary injunction halting construction of a planned ICE detention facility in Washington County, Maryland, finding the federal government improperly used a categorical exclusion from environmental review requirements. The judge upheld Maryland's arguments that the facility could overwhelm local water and sewer infrastructure and harm waterways and protected species like the green floater mussel. Interior repairs including HVAC and drywall work may proceed, while a decision on the proposed security fence is pending.
Sources
- origintdrdev.wpengine.com
- Judge grants preliminary injunction over proposed ICE facility near Hagerstown
WBAL·Apr 16, 2026·archived copy
- marylandmatters.org
- Attorney General Brown Files Lawsuit to Stop Construction of Unlawful ICE Detention Facility in Washington County - News - Office of the Attorney General of Maryland
- Judge halts construction of ICE facility in Maryland over environmental concerns
WYPR·Apr 15, 2026·archived copy
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