In a recent court hearing, a federal judge scrutinized the Justice Department regarding President Donald Trump’s claim that he could facilitate the return of migrants deported to a high-security prison in El Salvador. The judge, James Boasberg, is deliberating a case related to Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act, specifically focusing on the situation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador under a different immigration authority.
During the hearing, Boasberg questioned a Justice Department attorney about Trump’s statement regarding the potential return of Abrego Garcia, highlighting concerns about the president’s credibility. The attorney’s response, emphasizing Trump’s perceived influence rather than addressing the question directly, drew frustration from the judge. The attorney argued that despite Trump’s beliefs, El Salvador ultimately holds control over the situation.
Boasberg’s decision on whether the migrants in question should be brought back to the US hinges on determining if the US government currently has custody over them while they are in the Salvadoran prison. The judge expressed a need for more information to make an informed ruling, requesting the Trump administration to provide supporting declarations or documents by a specified deadline. Additionally, he outlined a limited scope for further inquiry by the migrants’ lawyers to aid in his decision-making process.
The judge announced plans to issue an order detailing the next steps in the proceedings, underscoring the complexity and importance of resolving the custody and legal issues surrounding the deported migrants.
