Two California House Democrats visited the Otay Mesa Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center Thursday as part of ongoing congressional oversight of the troubled facility.
The tour came as the center faces persistent allegations of overcrowding, inadequate conditions, and sexual assaults. The lawmakers' visit had been scheduled in advance, following standard notification protocols.
Rep. Mike Levin, one of the visiting Democrats, signaled plans to increase unannounced inspections going forward. His announcement follows a federal court decision that blocked a Trump administration requirement forcing Congress members to provide seven days' notice before conducting oversight visits to ICE facilities.
The ruling gives lawmakers greater flexibility to conduct surprise inspections without advance warning, a change that could allow for more spontaneous assessments of detention conditions. Levin indicated he intends to take advantage of that authority at Otay Mesa and potentially other facilities.
The Otay Mesa center, located in San Diego County, has drawn scrutiny from immigrant advocacy groups and lawmakers concerned about detainee treatment. Prior investigations and complaints have documented issues ranging from sanitation and medical care to allegations of sexual misconduct by staff.
Thursday's visit represents part of broader congressional efforts to monitor conditions at ICE facilities nationwide. The center's troubled history has made it a focal point for lawmakers examining the treatment of immigrants in federal custody.
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