Federal judge weighs contempt charges over Trump-era deportations to El Salvador
The Trump administration has faced legal challenges after deporting hundreds of men to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act. A federal judge, Judge James Boasberg, issued a temporary restraining order to block the removals, but officials proceeded anyway. The case has now led to contempt proceedings against government representatives.
In March, the administration announced plans to deport alleged migrant gang members, including those linked to Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua. Officials described the group as a 'hybrid criminal state' invading the US, using the claim to justify the removals. Two planeloads of men were sent to El Salvador despite Judge Boasberg’s order to halt the deportations.
The ACLU reported that many of the deported individuals were still recovering from severe abuse suffered at CECOT prison. Attorneys for the men are now pushing for a preliminary injunction to challenge their designation under the Alien Enemies Act. Meanwhile, an unrelated border operation seized $2.6 million worth of methamphetamine hidden in a vehicle transporting batteries.
An appeals court recently refused to review the contempt case against the administration, clearing the way for Judge Boasberg to continue his inquiry. The judge will determine whether officials knowingly violated the court’s earlier ruling by proceeding with the deportations.
The legal battle centres on whether the government defied a direct court order. If found in contempt, Trump administration officials could face further penalties. The outcome may also affect future deportation cases under the Alien Enemies Act.
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