In a legal battle between the president and yet another activist judge that has gone ballistic, U.S. District Judge James Boasberg found probable cause to hold the Trump administration in criminal contempt.
See the tweet below!
The administration allegedly violated a court order to temporarily halt deportations under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.
This legal decision highlights the ongoing clash between the branches of government over immigration policy and judicial authority.
Judge Boasberg accused the administration of conducting a “hurried removal operation” after an order to pause deportations.
The court had clearly directed that any ongoing flights be stopped, a directive the administration stands accused of defying.
The Judge stated, “As this Opinion will detail, the Court ultimately determines that the Government’s actions on that day demonstrate a willful disregard for its Order.”
The alleged violation concerns the deportation of Venezuelan individuals deemed dangerous, but without sufficient evidence that due process was followed in each case.
President Trump invoked the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
Despite a temporary restraining order, the administration deported 137 people to El Salvador.
This move sparked legal action from organizations like the ACLU and Democracy Forward, who argue the deportations occurred without regard for legal proceedings.
The Justice Department countered by challenging Judge Boasberg’s order, suggesting issues with the explanation and execution of his directive.
However, Boasberg emphasized that such disregard for judicial orders significantly undermines constitutional integrity.
The administration now faces a deadline to rectify its position or potentially face further legal ramifications.
Notably, the White House intends to appeal the ruling, with Communications Director Steven Cheung stating, “We plan to seek immediate appellate relief.”
“The Constitution does not tolerate willful disobedience of judicial orders — especially by officials of a coordinate branch who have sworn an oath to uphold it,” Boasberg said, cited by The Hill.
The Trump administration maintains it did not violate any court order, asserting the deportations were lawful. However, the court maintains that the actions taken demonstrated willful disobedience.
Furthermore, Judge Boasberg underscored the need for accountability, noting potential prosecution of officials if deadlines are not met.
The White House’s decision to pursue further deportations with El Salvador raises concerns about adherence to legal protocols in future operations.
“The Court ultimately determines that the Government’s actions on that day demonstrate a willful disregard for its Order, sufficient for the Court to conclude that probable cause exists to find the Government in criminal contempt,” Boasberg wrote.
#BREAKING: U.S. District Judge James Boasberg moves to hold Trump admin in contempt over deportation flights https://t.co/XQD7Ajr5cy
— The Hill (@thehill) April 16, 2025
