DHS finalizes purchase of Social Circle warehouse for ICE detention center

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has officially purchased a massive industrial warehouse in Social Circle, Georgia, with plans to convert it into a large-scale ICE detention center. Despite strong opposition from local leaders and U.S. Rep. Mike Collins, the facility at 1365 E. Hightower Trail is expected to begin housing up to 10,000 detainees as early as April 2026. Social Circle officials warn that the facility will triple the city's population and overwhelm local infrastructure.