An administrative error led to the detainees being “bonded out,” FDEM spokeswoman Stephanie Hartman said in a statement. Both were quickly located and brought back to the facility, she said, adding that officials believe there is no continuing threat to the public.

The state has not said whether either detainee has a criminal record. FDEM is reviewing the incident to determine accountability and prevent similar mistakes, Hartman said.

The Deportation Depot operates at the former Baker Correctional Institution in Sanderson, about 40 miles west of Jacksonville. It is separate from the Baker County Detention Center, which is operated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. ICE has said the state facility can hold up to 2,000 people and currently houses about 1,000 detainees awaiting transfer to federal custody.

FDEM, which is part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive office, oversees the state’s immigration detention facilities. Florida has a contract of up to $101 million with GEO|CDR BAKER to provide staffing, correctional officers, intake operations and health and medical services at the facility. State records show about $32 million had been paid under the contract as of Sept. 22.

GEO|CDR BAKER was formed in 2025 and is led by executives from private detention company The GEO Group and health care provider CDR Health Care. The mistaken release comes as the state continues to expand its role in immigration enforcement, making oversight of detention operations and public spending a concern for Floridians.