Judge Holds Trump Administration in Contempt Over Deportation Flights
Judge James Boasberg held the Trump administration in contempt for deporting individuals to El Salvador despite a court order halting deportations under the Alien Enemies Act. The judge found the administration’s actions demonstrated willful disregard for the order, citing the deportations’ timing and a lack of satisfactory explanation. The administration can avoid further consequences by providing hearings for the deported individuals, allowing them to challenge their deportation. However, failure to comply will result in identifying and prosecuting the responsible individual(s). The Supreme Court’s subsequent reversal of the restraining order does not excuse the administration’s contempt.
John Q. Hosedrinker