Pearsall, Texas, February 7, 2026
Congressman Joaquin Castro recently assessed the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall, Texas. He expressed concerns about detainee conditions and addressed an alarming home invasion incident in San Antonio involving armed individuals. Castro, alongside Rep. Maxine Dexter, urged for transparency regarding the treatment of detainees and the role of the Texas National Guard at ICE facilities, highlighting issues such as inadequate medical care and unsanitary food.
San Antonio, Texas – February 7, 2026
Congressman Joaquin Castro Visits ICE Facility in Pearsall, Addresses Armed Officers Entering San Antonio Home
U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro recently visited the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall, Texas, to assess conditions at the facility. During his visit, he also addressed a separate incident in San Antonio involving armed individuals entering a private residence.
Visit to Pearsall ICE Facility
On February 6, 2026, Rep. Castro toured the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall, accompanied by Rep. Maxine Dexter. They met with detainees, observed court proceedings, and spoke with Texas National Guard leaders whose troops have been assigned to ICE facilities for administrative and logistical support. Castro described the facility as an “absolute prison,” noting that many detainees had no criminal records and were primary breadwinners for their families. He expressed concerns about the conditions, including reports of inadequate medical care and unsanitary food. Castro also questioned the role of Texas National Guard troops stationed at the facility, highlighting the need for transparency regarding their duties and coordination with ICE officials.
Incident in San Antonio
Separately, Rep. Castro addressed a video that surfaced on February 6, 2026, showing two armed individuals entering a San Antonio residence. The video, which has been widely viewed on social media, depicts the individuals searching for someone inside the home. According to reports, the individuals performed a traffic stop in an unmarked vehicle and followed the family to their residence. Castro described the incident as a “home invasion,” stating that it was “a scene out of Russia.” He criticized the actions of the individuals involved and called for accountability. As of now, the identities of the individuals and the agencies they represent have not been officially confirmed.
Background Context
The South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall is one of the largest immigration detention facilities in Texas, with a capacity of about 1,900 detainees. The facility is operated by private prison contractor GEO Group under contract with ICE. The Texas National Guard has been deployed to assist with administrative and logistical functions at ICE facilities, including Pearsall. This deployment has raised questions about the Guard’s role in immigration enforcement and the need for transparency regarding their activities.
Rep. Castro has been actively involved in addressing issues related to ICE operations and the treatment of detainees. He has called for increased oversight and transparency to ensure that the rights of individuals are protected and that operations are conducted lawfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall?
The South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall is one of the largest immigration detention facilities in Texas, with a capacity of about 1,900 detainees. The facility is operated by private prison contractor GEO Group under contract with ICE.
What is the role of the Texas National Guard at ICE facilities?
The Texas National Guard has been deployed to assist with administrative and logistical functions at ICE facilities, including Pearsall. This deployment has raised questions about the Guard’s role in immigration enforcement and the need for transparency regarding their activities.
What is Rep. Joaquin Castro’s stance on ICE operations?
Rep. Joaquin Castro has been actively involved in addressing issues related to ICE operations and the treatment of detainees. He has called for increased oversight and transparency to ensure that the rights of individuals are protected and that operations are conducted lawfully.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pearsall, Texas |
| Facility | South Texas ICE Processing Center |
| Capacity | Approximately 1,900 detainees |
| Operator | GEO Group under contract with ICE |
| Deployment | Texas National Guard assisting with administrative and logistical functions |
| Congressional Visit | Rep. Joaquin Castro and Rep. Maxine Dexter toured the facility on February 6, 2026 |
| San Antonio Incident | Video surfaced on February 6, 2026, showing armed individuals entering a residence; identities and agency affiliations unconfirmed |
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