Federal judge threatens Trump administration with criminal contempt over deportations

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the Terrorist Confinement Center in Tecoluca, El Salvador, on March 26. The center received alleged gang members on March 15. A ruling by U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg stated that there is sufficient reason to charge members of the Trump administration with criminal contempt for the deportation flights to El Salvador on March 15. Despite a court order against the flights under the Alien Enemies Act, the government proceeded with the deportations. The judge instructed the administration to bring back the planes to the United States. The Supreme Court later allowed the deportations under the Alien Enemies Act and overturned Boasberg’s restraining order. Boasberg criticized the administration for not following the court order and threatened prosecution if they do not rectify the contempt. The Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman stated that the Supreme Court had already criticized Boasberg’s actions, calling them lawless.