Temporary processing facility coming to Yuma Sector within a month

A soft-sided facility will be added to the Yuma Sector for the first time in the sector’s history.

” This facility will be in addition to the brick and mortar that we already have in place. It is a temporary measure that will be able to house anywhere for 800 to 1,000 detainees, ” explained Agent Jose Garibay , Yuma Sector Public Affairs Unit.

The Yuma Sector plans to have the facility up and running within the next 30 days. Agents said the facility will look similar to those already up in the Rio Grande Valley.

The processing centers within the Yuma Sector are located in Yuma, Blythe, and Wellton and can only hold about 410 people.

The addition of the soft-sided facility does not mean that releases into the community will come to an end.

” The facility for us is just to be able to hold an additional amount of people effectively. We’re still going to be transferring the same amount of people to ICE and if needed people into the community, ” said Agent Garibay .

Border Patrol said this facility will also be equipped for the holding of those entering the Yuma Sector.

“It will come with facilities such as laundry services and other things that are necessary for the temporary holding of a large number of individuals,” said Agent Garibay .

The Yuma Sector said they don’t currently have laundry facilities in their processing centers. They instead give detainees new clothing when needed and use disposable blankets, according to Border Patrol.

Agents confirmed that the facility will be air-conditioned.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed they were exploring the idea for the Yuma Sector on May 7.