The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting Venezuelan detainees held at the Bluebonnet Detention Center in Texas under the rarely used Alien Enemies Act, an 18th-century law for accelerated removal of perceived threats. Justices issued an order preventing removals until further notice, with Justices Thomas and Alito in dissent.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) warned of imminent deportations under the Act, despite Supreme Court restrictions requiring due process. Venezuelans at the Bluebonnet facility faced immediate deportation, ACLU lawyer Lee Gelernt revealed.

The Trump administration had deported 137 alleged Tren de Aragua gang members under the Act, with ongoing removals planned. The government’s actions drew criticism for lack of transparency, citing counterterrorism concerns.

The ACLU sought emergency relief from the Supreme Court and federal judges, arguing for proper notice and the right to contest removal. Federal Judge Boasberg raised concerns over inadequate information provided to migrants under the Act.

While the Justice Department defended its notice procedures, multiple federal judges halted Alien Enemies Act deportations. The ACLU continued legal challenges to prevent deportations at various Texas centers, alleging targeted placement of Venezuelan migrants at Bluebonnet.

Recent developments included Judge Boasberg’s contempt finding against the administration, reversed by the Supreme Court granting jurisdiction solely to detainee judges. The story involved contributions from Stella M. Chávez of The Texas Newsroom and NPR’s Ximena Bustillo.