Judge Finds Probable Cause for Contempt Against Trump Administration Over Deportation Flights

District Judge James Boasberg has found probable cause to hold the Trump administration in contempt for failing to comply with a court order regarding deportation flights.

In a significant legal development, District Judge James Boasberg has determined that there is probable cause to hold the Trump administration in contempt for its actions following a deportation flight on March 15. The judge’s 48-page opinion detailed that the administration’s failure to return two planes deporting migrants to El Salvador, despite a direct court order to do so, demonstrated a “willful disregard” for judicial authority. This ruling comes at a time when tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary are notably high.

Judge Boasberg’s opinion also set a deadline for the Trump administration to respond to his inquiries by April 23. Failure to comply could lead to the matter being referred for potential prosecution. The judge emphasized the need to identify the specific individuals responsible for the “contumacious conduct” and determine the exact causes of noncompliance.

The Justice Department has the option to prosecute the contempt internally or appoint another attorney to handle the case. Judge Boasberg stressed that his conclusion was not reached lightly and that the government had been given multiple opportunities to rectify or explain their actions, none of which were deemed satisfactory.

This legal battle adds another layer to the ongoing disputes between the Trump administration and the judiciary, highlighting the challenges and confrontations in the enforcement of immigration policies.