Overview

• Judge James Boasberg has determined there is probable cause to hold Trump administration officials in criminal contempt for violating his order to turn back deportation flights to El Salvador.
• The administration deported alleged gang members under the Alien Enemies Act, claiming the flights had already landed when the court order was received.
• The Supreme Court vacated Boasberg’s initial restraining order but stated that judicial orders must still be obeyed until formally reversed.
• Boasberg criticized the administration’s actions as a threat to the rule of law and granted officials an opportunity to address or remedy the violations.
• Legal experts note that President Trump’s pardon power could potentially nullify any criminal contempt charges, citing historical precedent.