A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration is allowed to utilize the Alien Enemy Act (AEA) to deport members of the Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela. However, the court found that proper notice was not given to those facing removal, which raises concerns about their right to legal due process prior to any deportations taking place.
The 43-page decision, issued by US District Judge Stephanie Haynes, appointed during the Trump era, appears at odds with previous court rulings that have scrutinized the administration’s deportation efforts.
Notably, more than 4,000 foreign students with significant criminal backgrounds had their visas canceled within Trump’s first 100 days in office.
Judge Haynes noted that once the legal process is addressed, it would then fall to the political branches of government—and ultimately to voters—to decide whether the application of the law aligns with their will.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House for comment.
Trump had issued a Presidential Order on March 14, aimed at addressing the situation regarding the Tren de Aragua gang as a response to perceived threats.
This recent ruling specifically pertains to foreign individuals associated with terrorist organizations, particularly Venezuelans identified as part of Tren de Aragua, while excluding naturalized or legal permanent residents aged 14 and over.
In another noteworthy development, Noem plans to withdraw support for foreign immigrants aligned with Democrats.
Earlier this month, a different judge ruled that the administration could not deport illegal immigrants based solely on the AEA, challenging its application to suspected gang members.
“The core issue raised in this case is whether the president can invoke the AEA to detain and deport specific members of the Venezuelan community identified as part of Tren de Aragua,” stated U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr., who was also appointed by Trump.
In light of ongoing developments, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tennessee, alongside local law enforcement, has announced various indictments against individuals connected to the Tren de Aragua gang.
Ultimately, concerns remain as to whether using the AEA in this manner contradicts both the statutory limits and the broader interpretations of its intent.
