Camp East Montana deaths spark urgent federal court motion for changes

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- A coalition of legal organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union and Texas Civil Rights Project, filed a motion in federal court demanding urgent changes at Camp East Montana.

The groups alleged the immigration detention center on Fort Bliss has severe medical neglect, unsafe living conditions and violence by guards. They said the factors caused three deaths at the facility in the past year.

Their motion includes testimony from current and former detainees, who alleged hunger, lack of water and punishment for seeking help.

Advocates said the federal government failed to address abuses at the facility, and they're seeking a preliminary injunction to force improvements.

The lawsuit calls for immediate court action to prevent further harm.