The Guam Legislature convened on December 11, 2024, to address critical issues surrounding the overcrowding of pretrial detainees in local facilities. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the safety and conditions of the current detention domes, which are reportedly over capacity and pose security risks.

During the session, officials discussed the urgent need for additional infrastructure to alleviate overcrowding. One proposal included the construction of a new dome to accommodate the excess population. However, the cost of such a project remains undetermined, as officials indicated that a scope of work would need to be conducted to provide accurate estimates.

Concerns were raised about the structural integrity of the existing domes, particularly in light of past incidents where one dome collapsed during a storm. Officials emphasized the necessity of transitioning detainees to safer areas within the main facility during severe weather events, as the current dome structures are not deemed reliable. The discussion underscored the preference for more permanent solutions, such as concrete facilities, to ensure the safety of inmates.

The meeting also touched on the involvement of federal detainees, clarifying that they are housed separately at the Haganya Detention Facility and only moved in emergencies. Additionally, Major Lizama from the Department of Corrections reported on a request made to the Attorney General for the release of nonviolent crime defendants, citing the increasing population and deteriorating conditions of the facilities as pressing reasons for this action.

Overall, the session underscored the urgent need for improvements in the detention system in Guam, with officials calling for both immediate and long-term solutions to address overcrowding and safety concerns.