U.S. judge said Trump administration violated order by sending immigrants on flight to Africa

The Trump administration defied a federal court order by deporting eight immigrants with serious criminal backgrounds to third countries in a flight believed to be heading to conflict-ridden South Sudan. U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy in Massachusetts stated that individuals from Myanmar, Vietnam, Cuba, South Sudan, and Mexico were not given a proper chance to object to their transfer to the violence-plagued nation, going against the court’s ruling. The judge mentioned that he would later decide on any potential consequences for the administration.

This action transpired during a hearing at a federal courthouse in Boston after lawyers filed an emergency motion upon discovering that their clients, two Asian immigrants detained in Texas, and others were sent to South Sudan. The country is grappling with armed ethnic and political conflicts, alongside a refugee crisis displacing over 4 million people.

Government attorneys argued that detainees had sufficient time to express concerns about credible fear to immigration officials at the detention center and required only a 24-hour notice before being deported to a third country. However, Judge Murphy found this timeline inadequate, emphasizing that the administration’s actions unquestionably violated the court’s order.

The individuals were reportedly still on the plane on Wednesday morning, as per government officials briefing the court. The judge inquired whether it was feasible for the government to interview the men in custody to assess their credible fear claims, as mandated by the court order.

The administration has been intensifying efforts to expel immigrants with minimal due process to countries where they lack connections, challenging court rulings and pushing the boundaries of executive authority.

During a news briefing, Department of Homeland Security officials stated that South Sudan might not serve as the final destination for the eight removed immigrants, despite attorney statements and a “Removal Order” designating the African country as the endpoint. The officials cited criminal backgrounds, public safety risks, and unacceptance by their home nations as reasons for deportation.

Judge Murphy instructed the Trump administration to maintain custody of the immigrants, emphasizing the expectation of humane treatment towards them. Homeland Security officials affirmed that the detainees remained under custody and were afforded due process.

The detainees, including individuals from South Sudan and other countries, were convicted of severe crimes such as murder, attempted murder, robbery, and sexual offenses involving vulnerable victims. The State Department reportedly facilitated an agreement with a willing nation to accept the detainees.

White House representatives defended the deportations of individuals with criminal histories, emphasizing public safety. The officials noted that the detainees’ home countries refused repatriation, prompting removal to a deemed “safe third country” under federal law.

Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons highlighted challenges dealing with uncooperative nations in repatriating criminals. He deferred to the State Department regarding South Sudan’s status as a safe third country, citing ongoing armed conflicts and security concerns in the region.

Earlier attempts to deport immigrants to Libya were halted by Judge Murphy due to the unstable conditions in the country. Libya faces terrorism, civil unrest, and other security threats, according to the State Department. Reports from human rights organizations have outlined grave abuses in detention facilities and migrant camps within the nation.