Immigration detention and third-country deportation litigation intensifies
Key Questions
What is the contempt case against the Trump administration?
Judges are seeking to revive a contempt case for defying Judge Boasberg's order regarding CECOT deportation flights. A whistleblower complaint highlighted DOJ officials saying 'f— you' to courts, with 174 former judges filing an amicus brief supporting judicial independence.
What is the status of the Flores settlement?
The Trump administration is fighting to scrap the Flores settlement in the 9th Circuit. A judge is considering appointing a special master due to noncompliance and reports of horrific detention conditions like spoiled food and lice.
What new immigration court did the DOJ use?
The DOJ made its first-ever use of the secret Alien Terrorist Removal Court, a dormant and constitutionally questionable tribunal. The judge has ordered additional work in the case.
What was the Fourth Circuit's ruling on pro-Palestinian activists?
The Fourth Circuit rejected the Trump administration's bid to re-implement deportation of pro-Palestinian activists. This adds to a series of court losses on immigration enforcement efforts.
What hearing is upcoming on detention oversight?
A July 31 hearing on oversight is scheduled due to concerns over detention conditions. The judge is evaluating a special master appointment amid allegations of noncompliance.
The First Circuit largely blocked third-country removals without meaningful notice and an opportunity to raise persecution or torture claims. DOJ is seeking immediate Supreme Court intervention, while the Suri and Genalo-related proceedings keep detention, habeas jurisdiction, mootness, and certiorari-before-judgment issues active; GAO findings add documented concerns about at least $20 million in detention-related waste and poor planning.