FEDERAL JUDGE RESTORES BOND HEARINGS NATIONWIDE FOR IMMIGRATION DETAINEES, UNDERCUTTING ICE/DHS JULY POLICY

A California federal judge expanded access to bond hearings nationwide for detained immigrants without criminal histories, reversing a Trump-era DHS/ICE policy from July that curtailed immigration judges’ authority. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Sunshine S. Sykes applies beyond the named plaintiffs to detainees across the country. DHS cited a BIA decision in defending its policy but did not say whether it will appeal; thousands could now seek release while cases proceed.