Supreme Court Blocks Deportations of Venezuelans Under 18th-Century Law
WASHINGTON, May 16, 2025 — The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a block on the Trump administration’s effort to deport 176 Venezuelans in Northern Texas, citing violations of due process rights. The case revolves around the administration’s attempt to utilize the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to remove individuals suspected of links to the gang Tren de Aragua.
In a decision released Friday, a majority of justices criticized the administration for providing insufficient notice—roughly 24 hours—before deportation, without adequate information for the individuals to contest their removal. “This does not pass muster,” the ruling stated, emphasizing the importance of due process.
The Court did not, however, rule on the broader legality of invoking the Alien Enemies Act itself. Conservative justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented.
In response, former President Trump took to social media to express his dissatisfaction, declaring, “THE SUPREME COURT WON’T ALLOW US TO GET CRIMINALS OUT OF OUR COUNTRY!”
The high court’s intervention came after the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals was found to have erred by dismissing the detainees’ appeal over jurisdiction. The case was subsequently sent back for further review.
The Trump administration has argued that detaining alleged members of Tren de Aragua poses risks to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. In light of concerns raised by the American Civil Liberties Union, the Court noted the potential for wrongful deportations to countries like El Salvador, where detainees face severe conditions.
Amid growing scrutiny, the ACLU previously sought emergency relief, highlighting that other federal judges have similarly restricted the use of the wartime law in their jurisdictions. This reinforces ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement and the rights of individuals facing deportation.
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