Overview

• Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney issued a 14-day restraining order blocking deportations in Colorado under the Alien Enemies Act, with a hearing set for April 21.
• The Trump administration invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to target Venezuelan noncitizens allegedly linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.
• The ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of two Venezuelan men, challenging the legality of the act’s use and citing violations of due process and Congressional authority.
• A recent Supreme Court ruling affirmed that individuals facing deportation under the act must receive federal court hearings before removal.
• The case highlights escalating tensions between the executive branch and federal courts over immigration enforcement and the use of historical statutes.