Court could hold officials in contempt over deportation

US District Judge James Boasberg found that Trump administration officials could face criminal charges for ignoring his March 15 order blocking deportations of alleged Venezuelan gang members.

Boasberg ruled that officials showed “willful disregard” for the order, a “probable cause” to hold them in criminal contempt of court.

The judge highlighted an X social media comment by Secretary of State Marco Rubio mocking the order, saying, “Oopsie…Too late.” He gave the administration until April 23 to comply or name the responsible officials.

The Justice Department has appealed the ruling.

The Trump administration has deported nearly 300 Venezuelan migrants under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act. They are alleged to be gang members and were denied the chance to contest their removals.