Trump Administration Awards $1.2B Contract to Unlikely Firm for Detention Center

In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration awarded a $1.2 billion contract last month to create the nation’s largest immigration detention facility, opting not for a big contractor or a private prison firm. Instead, the contract was given to Acquisition Logistics LLC, a Virginia-based small business with no experience in managing correctional facilities and a history of federal contracts not exceeding $16 million. The company operates from a suburban house owned by Ken A Wagner, a retiree, and does not even have a functioning website.

The situation has sparked mystery and concern, especially after the facility started taking in its initial detainees recently. The Pentagon has been secretive, not releasing the contract or clarifying why Acquisition Logistics was chosen over other bidders for the project at Fort Bliss, Texas. This secrecy has led at least one competitor to file a complaint.

Experts view this as symptomatic of the Trump administration’s rush to fulfill promises of deporting millions of undocumented immigrants. The government increasingly employs military resources for roles traditionally managed by civilian agencies. Rep. Veronica Escobar, whose area includes Fort Bliss, expressed worries about entrusting a large-scale project to a small, inexperienced company. She noted the risk of standards slipping when facilities prioritize profit margins.

Joshua Schnell, an attorney specializing in federal contracting law, emphasized the lack of transparency in awarding such a substantial contract to a company lacking public information and a website. Acquisition Logistics CEO Ken A Wagner has not responded to inquiries, adding to the intrigue surrounding the contract.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth approved Fort Bliss as the site for the new detention center, which hints at future centers elsewhere. However, the Army has not disclosed details about the deal, citing ongoing litigation. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE also remained tight-lipped about the facility.

The facility, dubbed Camp East Montana, is being built in the challenging Chihuahuan Desert, where extreme heat poses significant dangers. It has been compared to similar sites that faced criticism, such as the Alligator Alcatraz in Florida. The majority of detained migrants are currently housed in private prisons, but with those nearing capacity, ICE is exploring temporary facilities on military bases in other states.

The Fort Bliss project began swiftly after the Army issued the contract on July 18, aided by congressional tax and spending approvals. Tents and buildings have rapidly sprung up, according to satellite images.

Critics have voiced concerns about using military bases, referencing historical precedents of abuses. Detention facilities are often inaccessible to outsiders, increasing potential for neglect. The Fort Bliss contract requires the contractor to maintain secrecy, even instructing to refer media or congressional inquiries to ICE.

With preferences for small businesses, Acquisition Logistics qualified for the bid despite being inexperienced. The firm’s past work involved minor logistical and technical services, raising doubts about its capacity for this project. Gemini Tech Services, a losing bidder, is challenging the contract award, questioning Acquisition Logistics’ preparedness.

The GAO is reviewing the complaint, and a further appeal is pending in federal court. There’s speculation that Acquisition Logistics could be collaborating with larger partners like Geo Group, which signaled interest in such collaborations, though neither Geo nor CoreCivic have confirmed partnerships with Wagner’s firm. (AP)

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