Maryland Sues Federal Government Over Unauthorized Immigration Detention Facility Purchase

Maryland has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the federal government’s plan to convert a warehouse into an immigration detention facility, alleging violations of environmental laws and procedural requirements.

Attorney General Anthony Brown announced the suit against the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), arguing the project advanced without required environmental review, state consultation, or public input.

Brown, a Democrat, stated that the Trump administration “purchased this facility while keeping the State and the public in the dark.” According to the complaint, ICE acquired a 54-acre warehouse outside Williamsport on January 16 for $102.4 million. The property spans more than 825,000 square feet of warehouse space developed between 2021 and 2023 for commercial use.

Federal administrators have indicated the site would be converted into a detention center capable of housing up to 1,500 individuals. Williamsport, with a population of just over 2,000 residents and located about 65 miles northwest of Baltimore, has raised concerns about the project’s scale.

Brown emphasized that federal law—including the National Environmental Policy Act—requires agencies to conduct environmental reviews and provide public comment opportunities before undertaking major actions affecting the environment. The lawsuit alleges DHS and ICE violated NEPA by purchasing the property and advancing conversion plans without completing those steps. It also claims violations of the Administrative Procedure Act, noting the agencies failed to provide a reasoned explanation for their decision or consider alternatives.

Brown highlighted environmental concerns due to the facility’s proximity to state waterways and ecologically significant areas. He additionally cited existing sewer infrastructure designed for warehouse use with limited restroom facilities as part of the state’s objections to converting it into a residential detention site.

Democrat Governor Wes Moore stated federal agencies must adhere to the same legal requirements as other entities when projects impact local communities and emphasized Maryland’s efforts to ensure required environmental and public review processes are completed before further development proceeds. The complaint indicates the Williamsport purchase is part of a federal initiative to expand detention capacity nationwide. Maryland seeks an injunction to halt further development until necessary environmental reviews and related procedures are finalized.