TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A third migrant detention center is no longer an idea being floated by state leaders. Gov. DeSantis confirms that a third temporary migrant detention center dubbed “Panhandle Pokey” will open.

“Wouldn't it be good to have a panhandle thing? That's happening. That's underway,” DeSantis said.

This will join the other facilities like Alligator Alcatraz near the Everglades and the so-called Deportation Depot at Baker Correctional Institution near Jacksonville.

“As people come in illegally that are detained and processed, they are removed from Florida very quickly now,” DeSantis said.

The governor said one of the main goals is for expedited deportations.

Records show the initial cost to open and operate Alligator Alcatraz carried more than a $200 million price tag. Ope

See Full Page