Summary
A federal appeals court decided that President Donald Trump cannot use an old wartime law, the Alien Enemies Act, to deport members of a Venezuelan gang. The court ruled that this law wasn't meant to target gangs and stopped this effort, but the decision might go to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Key Facts
- A federal appeals court ruled against using the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan gang members.
- The three-judge panel was from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
- The court's decision aligns with lower courts and lawyers who say the law wasn't meant for gang deportations.
- The Alien Enemies Act dates back to 1798 and has been used only three times during wartime.
- Over 250 deported Venezuelan migrants were previously sent to a prison in El Salvador.
- The court found no evidence of invasion or threat required by the law.
- The majority opinion was written by Judges Southwick and Ramirez, while Judge Oldham dissented.
- The Trump administration might appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.
