U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg has ruled that there is probable cause to hold the Trump administration in criminal contempt for violating a federal court order halting deportations to El Salvador.
The controversy stems from the administration’s continued deportation actions, particularly involving over 200 Venezuelan migrants expelled under the Alien Enemies Act, despite a clear judicial directive to cease such removals. The developments have intensified constitutional concerns about the administration’s repeated clashes with the judiciary.
Court Order Ignored: A Constitutional Showdown
On March 15, Judge Boasberg issued a court order halting deportation flights to El Salvador, citing due process violations and unsafe conditions for deportees. However, the Trump administration proceeded with removals, claiming that flights had already left U.S. airspace and that the judge’s oral directive did not constitute a binding legal mandate.
Judge Boasberg fired back, calling the administration’s justifications “woefully insufficient” and accusing it of “willful disregard for the judiciary.” He has demanded a full explanation from the U.S. Department of Justice by April 23, warning that failure to comply could result in criminal prosecution.
The Kilmar Abrego Garcia Case: A Flashpoint
At the center of the escalating legal fight is Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident deported to El Salvador despite a Supreme Court ruling mandating his return. The administration labeled Garcia a gang member, but subsequent court findings disputed the claim.
This case adds to a growing list of legal battles where the Trump administration is accused of undermining judicial authority. In a separate ruling, a federal judge recently found the administration in violation of a court order after it paused FEMA grants, impacting emergency programs in 22 states.
In that ruling, the judge chastised the executive branch for attempting to place itself “above Congress,” reinforcing that no branch of government is above the law.
READ JUDGE’S FULL ORDER BELOW:
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