Judge Boasberg Revives Contempt Probe Into Trump DHS Over 252 Venezuelans Deported Under 1798 Alien Enemies Act

Chief Judge James Boasberg signaled he will move forward on possible contempt after the Trump administration deported 252 Venezuelans to El Salvador’s CECOT prison despite his March order blocking use of the Alien Enemies Act for third‑country removals. An appeals stay that paused his action has lapsed after en banc review, restoring his authority to assess willful defiance. The case tests an unprecedented deportation tactic under an 18th‑century law with major legal and human‑rights implications.