# Violations of ICE Detention Standards at Otay Mesa Detention Center
> **Inspection / Evaluation** by Department of Homeland Security OIG · 2021-09-16
> *About: Department of Homeland Security*
## Report
- **Title:** Violations of ICE Detention Standards at Otay Mesa Detention Center
- **Submitting OIG:** Department of Homeland Security OIG
- **Component agency:** Department of Homeland Security
- **Type:** Inspection / Evaluation
- **Publication date:** 2021-09-16

## Summary

During our unannounced inspection of Otay Mesa in San Diego, California, we identified violations of ICE detention standards that compromised the health, safety, and rights of detainees. Otay Mesa complied with standards for classification and generally provided sufficient medical care to detainees. In addressing COVID-19, Otay Mesa did not consistently enforce precautions including use of facial coverings and social distancing. Overall, we found that Otay Mesa did not meet standards for grievances, segregation, or staff-detainee communications.


## Recommendations

- **Rec 1** (Closed): Ensure Otay Mesa meets ICE’s COVID-19 requirements for wearing masks and social distancing.
- **Rec 2** (Closed): Establish a grievance tracking system to ensure timely responses to all grievances filed at Otay Mesa.
- **Rec 3** (Closed): Ensure Otay Mesa forwards all staff misconduct complaints to ICE ERO, as required.
- **Rec 4** (Closed): Provide detainees in segregation access to laundry, legal materials, mail, required recreation time outside their cell, and the commissary(for those in administrative segregation).
- **Rec 5** (Closed): Provide detainees full access to a secure drop-box for ICE requests and verify that ICE responds timely to such requests.
- **Rec 6** (Closed): Ensure detainees have consistent and appropriate access to ICE ERO deportation officers including identifying time, duration, andlocation of ICE facility visits.
- **Rec 7** (Closed): Update ICE’s contract with Otay Mesa to better identify housing requirements and determine if guaranteed minimums are necessary.
## Source
- [oversight.gov report page](https://www.oversight.gov/reports/violations-ice-detention-standards-otay-mesa-detention-center)
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