US District Judge James Boasberg has ruled that Trump administration officials may be held in criminal contempt for defying his orders to cease using the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members. The judge is currently determining the appropriate punishment and next steps, providing the Justice Department with an opportunity to respond. This case has become a significant political and legal issue for the Trump administration, particularly during a deportation campaign in mid-March that involved sending migrants to a prison in El Salvador. Judge Boasberg emphasized the government’s willful disregard for his orders, leading to his decision that probable cause exists for criminal contempt. Despite giving ample opportunities for the defendants to address their actions, their responses were deemed unsatisfactory. This ruling reflects the court’s serious stance on the matter, as detailed in Boasberg’s comprehensive decision. The situation is evolving, and updates on the story are expected.