The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency acquired the Prairie Correctional Facility in Appleton, Minnesota, for $495.6 million, a price six times higher than its previous valuation of $75 million. This purchase has raised concerns from Minnesota officials, including Attorney General Keith Ellison, who is calling for a congressional investigation. The facility was previously offered to the state, which rejected the deal due to staffing and logistical issues. The acquisition has drawn scrutiny regarding ICE's spending practices and potential waste of taxpayer dollars.
Key facts
- ICE purchased the Prairie Correctional Facility for $495.6 million in August 2026.
- The facility was previously valued at $75 million by CoreCivic.
- Minnesota declined to purchase the facility due to staffing concerns.
- Attorney General Keith Ellison has called for a congressional investigation.
- CoreCivic donated $500,000 to Trump's inaugural committee.
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