Overview

• Judge Boasberg is reviewing whether the U.S. government must facilitate the return of 137 Venezuelan migrants deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act.
• The Trump administration argues it lacks control over the migrants, while the ACLU claims the U.S. retains 'constructive custody' due to its financial arrangement with El Salvador.
• Boasberg pressed Justice Department lawyers on conflicting statements, including President Trump's claim that he could secure a deportee's release with a phone call.
• The judge has ordered the administration to provide additional declarations by May 9 to clarify custody arrangements and the terms of the $6 million deal with El Salvador.
• The case highlights broader constitutional questions about executive power, due process rights, and the U.S. judicial system's ability to enforce compliance with court orders.