Despite a federal judge’s order halting deportations, the Trump administration deported migrants to El Salvador under a controversial wartime declaration. Judge Boasberg issued a restraining order, but two flights were already airborne. The ACLU is investigating potential court violations, and legal experts warn of the risks of wrongful deportations based on gang affiliations.
The Trump administration conducted the deportation of hundreds of migrants to El Salvador despite a federal judge’s order that temporarily prohibited such actions. This was done under an 18th-century war declaration aimed at combating Venezuelan gang members. At the time of the ruling by U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, two planes carrying migrants were already in transit, with one heading to El Salvador and another to Honduras.
Judge Boasberg issued a verbal directive for the planes to return, which was not documented in his written order. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, supporting the Trump administration, confirmed housing about 300 migrants in El Salvador for a year at a cost of $6 million.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted progress in detaining members of the Tren de Aragua gang, which El Salvador agreed to manage in local jails, characterizing it as a cost-saving measure for U.S. taxpayers. The Alien Enemies Act invoked has historical precedence in wartime legislation, allowing for the detention or removal of foreigners deemed threats.
The ACLU, which filed the lawsuit leading to Boasberg’s restraining order, is investigating whether the government defied the court’s directive. In a statement, ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt expressed ongoing concerns and awaited confirmation from the government regarding the legality of the deportations.
Venezuela’s government criticized Trump’s declaration as reminiscent of severe historical injustices. The Tren de Aragua gang has emerged from a notorious prison and is part of the broader migration crisis resulting from Venezuela’s economic collapse. The Trump administration has not disclosed specific identities or criminal backgrounds of those deported, leading to further scrutiny.
Footage released by El Salvador’s government showed migrants shackled and escorted by law enforcement upon their arrival, emphasizing the harsh treatment they faced. The detainees were taken to the CECOT facility, an emblem of Bukele’s stringent security measures designed to restore order in the country.
Legal specialists expressed concern that under the current invocation of the law, Venezuelans in the U.S. could be wrongfully labeled as gang members. Judge Boasberg’s temporary halt on deportations remains effective for 14 days, allowing those affected a chance to contest their removal. His upcoming hearing will further address these legal challenges and the implications of the Alien Enemies Act.
In summary, the Trump administration’s deportation of migrants to El Salvador has raised significant legal and ethical concerns. Despite a federal court’s order obstructing such actions, hundreds were sent to El Salvador under controversial wartime legislation. The situation highlights the complexities of U.S. immigration law and the implications of labeling individuals as gang members, potentially endangering their rights. The legal battle continues as the ACLU and affected individuals seek to challenge and clarify the interpretation and execution of the law.
Original Source: apnews.com
