Judicial Ruling

Boasberg Return Order — Venezuelan CECOT Deportees

Chief Judge Boasberg ordered the return of 137 Venezuelans deported to CECOT under the Alien Enemies Act, citing 'flagrant' due process violations. The government was ordered to pay for return flights. The administration has not complied and is appealing.

Injunction Granted

Case Details

Chief Judge Boasberg ordered the return of 137 Venezuelans deported to CECOT under the Alien Enemies Act, citing 'flagrant' due process violations. The government was ordered to pay for return flights. The administration has not complied and is appealing.

Date Filed

2026-02-12

Status

Injunction Granted

Court

U.S. District Court, District of Columbia

Outcome

Return ordered; government appealing; noncompliance ongoing

Related Executive Actions (1)

Alien Enemies Act Proclamation

Secretly signed March 14, invokes the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to authorize deportation of Venezuelans alleged to be members of Tren de Aragua gang to CECOT prison in El Salvador. Multiple federal courts ruled the invocation illegal, finding that gang activity does not constitute an 'invasion' or 'predatory incursion' within the meaning of the Act. 250+ men deported to CECOT.

Pending Litigation
ProclamationImmigration
Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice
4 challenges2025-03-14

Sources

Plaintiffs / Parties

  • J.G.G.
  • ACLU
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