Federal Judge Considers Charging Trump Officials with Criminal Contempt

A federal judge in Washington has determined there are sufficient grounds to evaluate criminal contempt charges against officials from the Trump administration. These officials allegedly violated a court order that prohibited deporting Venezuelan migrants, transferring them to a high-security prison in El Salvador.

Legal Conflict over Accelerated Deportations

Judge James Boasberg urged the government to act swiftly to avoid legal sanctions. His ruling intensifies the conflict between the judiciary and the executive amid a campaign of expedited deportations pushed by the Trump administration, which faces increasing legal challenges.

Emergency Hearing and Questioned Flights

The conflict arises from a hearing on March 15, where the use of the Alien Enemies Act to expel alleged Tren de Aragua members was challenged. Trump signed a proclamation on Friday, and flights began at dawn on Saturday. Although Boasberg verbally ordered the flights to return, the planes landed in El Salvador that same night.

Defense Arguments and Supreme Court Ruling

Government lawyers argue that the judge’s written order takes precedence over his verbal instruction. The Supreme Court, in a split decision, overturned Boasberg’s order on jurisdictional grounds, without exempting the government from possible initial noncompliance.

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Judicial Warning and Lack of Cooperation

Boasberg has repeatedly requested the identity of the individual who authorized the deportations, without receiving clear answers. He gave the government until next week to present corrective actions or sworn testimony from those responsible. “The government already knew the court was evaluating the legality of the removals,” he stated in his ruling.

Debate over Presidential Power and Possible Penalties

The Trump administration argues that these actions fall under the president’s foreign policy prerogatives. Criminal contempt charges against public officials are rare but can result in fines or imprisonment. These charges require a high burden of proof and presidential support to be enforced.

Parallel Case over Illegal Deportation in Maryland

A Maryland judge reviews another charge involving Kilmar Abrego García’s deportation, despite a standing immigration order. The government appealed the order for his return. Senator Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador to discuss the case. He called the deportation illegal during his discussions with local authorities.