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A federal judge in Massachusetts ruled on Wednesday (May 21) that the Trump administration violated a court order by deporting migrants to countries where they have no ties, including a flight linked to South Sudan. Judge Brian Murphy stated that the Department of Homeland Security's actions went against his April injunction, which aimed to prevent such deportations without due process.
The flight in question involved eight migrants, with at least one reportedly landing in South Sudan, although the government has not disclosed the destination, citing it as classified. The judge left open the possibility of holding the government in contempt for criminal obstruction in the future.
During the hearing, immigration lawyers argued that their clients were not given a meaningful opportunity to contest their deportations. Jonathan Ryan, a lawyer with the nonprofit Advokato, highlighted the lack of information and communication with his client, known only as "N.M.," who was reportedly sent to South Sudan.
The Trump administration defended its actions, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stating that the individuals on the flight had been convicted of crimes in the U.S. and could not be returned to their home countries. The administration sought third-country destinations for these individuals.
The judge criticized the administration's compliance with the court order, stating that the migrants were not given a proper chance to express fears of being sent to another country. The situation remains unresolved as the court considers further actions.