
- Varick officials waited 10 months to schedule a dental appointment for a detainee suffering an abscessed tooth. By the time the detainee had a dental exam, the infection had spread to seven teeth. The dentist recommended pulling all seven teeth. At his own expense, the detainee visited a private dentist, who determined that a series of root canals would address the problem. The government refused to authorize this less invasive treatment. After 16 months, the detainee’s teeth still have not been treated, causing him extreme pain and compromising his health.
- A detainee in extreme pain from prostate cancer requested a doctor’s appointment. Three weeks later, Varick staff still had not scheduled an appointment even though the man complained of extreme pain and difficulty urinating. It is unclear whether the detainee ever received the requested appointment.
- A detainee complained that his prosthetic leg caused pain and bleeding when he attempted to wear it. Varick officials consulted a private vendor, who determined that the artificial leg should be replaced. They informed the detainee of their intentions to request a replacement for him, but three months later the detainee had yet to receive a new prosthetic limb.
- Expand alternatives to detention for individuals who do not pose a risk to others. Possible alternatives for detention include supervised release, in-person reporting, home visits and community supervision.
- Release eligible detainees. DHS should engage in a case-by-case review of detention decisions for each detainee held at Varick and determine whether that detainee is eligible for release.
- Ensure that any changes to the placement of Varick detainees be done in a way that allows detainees access to legal counsel and their families.
- Improve grievance procedures to allow for better record-keeping and tracking of recurring complaints that should trigger heightened scrutiny by immigration officials.