Senator Jon Ossoff is calling out what he describes as disturbing mistreatment inside U.S. immigration detention facilities following a months-long investigation by his office. Speaking Monday, the Georgia Democrat said the probe uncovered “human rights abuse” affecting pregnant women and children, including American citizens.
Ossoff’s report details 14 allegations involving pregnant women and 18 involving children among more than 510 “credible reports of human rights abuse” since January. “I’m sounding the alarm,” Ossoff said, warning that the findings may be “the tip of the iceberg.”
One Department of Homeland Security whistleblower told investigators they had seen pregnant women sleeping on floors in overcrowded cells. Another account described a pregnant woman who bled for days before being taken to a hospital, where she said she miscarried alone without water or medical care for over 24 hours. In other cases, detainees claimed they were told to “just drink water” despite requesting medical attention. Attorneys reported clients waiting weeks to see a doctor.
Children’s cases included a 10-year-old U.S. citizen recovering from brain surgery who was allegedly denied follow-up care, leaving her with ongoing brain swelling and mobility challenges. “These detention facilities, absent some pressing threat to public safety, are no place for children or pregnant women,” Ossoff said.
The Department of Homeland Security rejected the claims, calling them “FALSE” and “garbage.” Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said detainees receive comprehensive care, including prenatal services and mental health support. She stated that no pregnant woman has been forced to sleep on the floor and that children often receive better healthcare in custody than before.
Ossoff stood by his findings, saying his team visited six detention facilities, interviewed dozens of witnesses, and reviewed evidence. “For DHS to immediately issue a blanket denial… is absurd,” he said.
