Rep. Ruiz Visits Immigration Detention Site, Urges Passage of Humanitarian

Calexico, CA - Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) conducted an oversight visit to the Imperial Regional Detention Facility to evaluate medical care, living conditions, and the treatment of individuals in custody.

Following the visit, Congressman Ruiz, an emergency physician and the author of the Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act, issued the following statement:

"Today's visit was about oversight and accountability. Last year was one of the deadliest years for immigration detention in more than two decades, with more than 56 people dying in ICE and CBP custody, including deaths connected to this facility. Luis Beltrán Yanez-Cruz and Huabing Xie were detainees here, and both died from heart attacks."

"These tragedies are occurring amid record levels of detention and growing concerns about delayed medical care, overcrowding, and inhumane conditions."

"That is why it is essential that the House pass my Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act to prevent death and protect human dignity."