Deportation Controversy: Judge Challenges Trump Administration Over Venezuelan Expulsions

A federal judge challenged the Trump administration on Monday for defying a court order regarding the deportation of hundreds of alleged Venezuelan gang members. Now, officials admit that some of those deported may have been charged with crimes—but not necessarily convicted.

One case raising concerns is that of Francisco Javier Garcia, who was sent to El Salvador instead of Venezuela, despite his family’s claims that he has no criminal record in either country. They argue his rights were violated, as he was initially told he would be deported to Venezuela.

Trump defends the move by citing the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, traditionally used during wartime. “This is a time of war because Biden allowed millions of people, many of them criminals,” Trump said.

The White House is now in a legal battle after the judge blocked the deportations and ordered the flights back. However, the Trump administration insists it did not defy the order, claiming it was issued after the planes had left U.S. airspace.

Constitutional attorney Joseph Malouf warns this situation could lead to a constitutional crisis. “Someone allegedly breaking the law is now enforcing it. That’s a conflict at the highest level,” he said.

Critics argue that deporting individuals without proper adjudication violates the 14th Amendment. Meanwhile, the White House maintains that the deported individuals posed a security threat.

U.S. taxpayers are now footing a $6 million bill to house the deportees in El Salvador. Of the 261 people deported, 101 were removed through standard immigration proceedings.