A U.S. federal judge, Chief U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, has found the Trump administration in contempt of court for violating his order to halt deportations of Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act. The judge’s April 16 ruling represents the latest development in the administration’s ongoing dispute with the courts over this issue.

Boasberg stated that the administration exhibited “willful disregard” for his previous order issued on March 15, which specifically prohibited the deportation of Venezuelan alleged gang members to El Salvador. The judge’s decision was influenced by the fact that at the time of his order, two planes carrying Venezuelans were en route to El Salvador and had not returned to the United States.

In his ruling, Boasberg emphasized that the finding of criminal contempt against the government was not made lightly and that ample opportunities were provided for the administration to address or justify their actions, which they failed to do satisfactorily.

The Trump administration has not yet commented on the ruling. This situation underscores the escalating tension between the executive branch and the judiciary regarding immigration policies and enforcement actions. As this story continues to unfold, it highlights the complexities and challenges surrounding immigration law and government compliance with court orders.