Bunikyte et al., v. Chertoff, et al.

This ruling grants the plaintiffs' counsel reasonable access to plaintiffs, the T. Don Hutto Family Family Residence detention facility (Hutto), and plaintiffs' records for purpose of discovery. The lawsuits contend that the conditions inside Hutto violate numerous provisions of Flores v. Meese, a 1997 court settlement that established minimum standards and conditions for the housing and release of all minors in federal immigration custody.

The lawsuits describe the conditions at the Hutto facility, which was previously used as a prison:

• Prison-type clothing is required
   
• Food, writing implements, and toys are not permitted in the small rooms
   
• Medical, dental, and mental health care are not provided
   
• Adequate educational opportunities are not provided
   
•  Physical activity outside is not encouraged
   
• Guards have disciplined children by threatening permanent separation from parents