Boasberg moves to hold Trump admin in contempt over deportation flights

SUMMARY

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg found “probable cause” to hold the Trump administration in criminal contempt for ignoring his March 15 order to halt deportations under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act and turn back two planes carrying over 100 Venezuelans to El Salvador. Boasberg wrote, “The Government’s actions…demonstrate a willful disregard for its Order,” giving Trump’s team one last shot to comply or face prosecution referrals for those who defied him. He slammed their “spirited out” deportations, saying, “The Constitution does not tolerate willful disobedience of judicial orders.” The Supreme Court lifted Boasberg’s block on April 7, but he’s still pushing, claiming Trump rushed 137 alleged Tren de Aragua gang members out to dodge legal challenges. Boasberg suggested regaining custody for habeas hearings but left it open, noting, “The Court will…give Defendants an opportunity to propose other methods of coming into compliance.” It's clear that Trump is fighting judicial overreach.