Rep. Steven Horsford was denied entry to the Nevada Southern Detention Center in Pahrump for an oversight inspection. Despite his legal right to inspect, he was told he posed a “security risk.” The facility, operated by CoreCivic under a contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), refused entry to Horsford, who had announced his visit a week in advance. Warden John Mattos did not provide a clear explanation for the denial, and deputies from the Nye County Sheriff’s Department were called as Horsford left the site.
This incident occurred amidst a broader context where a dozen members of Congress have sued the federal government, claiming they were being denied access to immigration facilities nationwide. Though no Nevada representatives joined the lawsuit, Horsford expressed support for it. The complaint highlights issues of overcrowding, food shortages, and inadequate medical care within the U.S. immigration detention system.
ICE did not comment on Horsford’s entry denial. Although DHS guidelines allow congressional members to enter facilities without prior notice for oversight, staff must provide at least a 24-hour notice. CoreCivic stated that all congressional visits must be coordinated with ICE’s Office of Congressional Relations.
Despite Horsford’s denial, Nevada state lawmakers from the Latino Legislative Caucus were recently permitted to tour the Pahrump facility, reporting concerns about treatment and conditions. CoreCivic asserts its compliance with federal detention standards and regular audits to ensure detainee welfare, although it did not address Horsford’s specific claims.