President Donald Trump is calling for the infamous Alcatraz prison to be reopened to “serve as a symbol of Law, Order, and JUSTICE.”
Trump says he’s discussing the move with his administration.
“For too long, America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering,” he wrote on TRUTH Social.
“When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm.”
“That’s the way it’s supposed to be. No longer will we tolerate these Serial Offenders who spread filth, bloodshed, and mayhem on our streets.”
Trump also said the “substantially enlarged and rebuilt” prison would “serve as a symbol of Law, Order, and JUSTICE.”
Trump also spoke to reporters about Alcatraz on the White House lawn.
“It’s long been a symbol … a sad symbol … but it’s a symbol of law and order,” Trump said, adding his administration is looking at reopening the infamous prison “right now.”
Watch Trump’s comments below:
NEW: Trump is ordering the reopening of the notorious Alcatraz prison.
Trump intends to restore the prison in order to detain violent offenders and criminal aliens.
Do you agree with the president reopening the prison? pic.twitter.com/jqwhRXT1d6
— Kyle Becker (@kylenabecker) May 5, 2025
Alcatraz Prison, situated on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, operated as a federal penitentiary from 1934 until 1963, housing infamous criminals like Al Capone and Robert Stroud—the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” Known for its harsh discipline and supposed inescapability, the prison became legendary for escape attempts, notably the mysterious 1962 breakout. Rising operational costs and structural decline forced its closure in 1963; today, Alcatraz is a popular tourist destination managed by the National Park Service.
