Boston Court Weighs Block on Controversial Deportation Policy
A federal judge in Boston is set to review the Trump administration’s policy of deporting migrants to third countries where they have no prior connections, without allowing them to contest their safety concerns. The decision could determine the fate of many noncitizens at risk of deportation.
Lawsuit Challenges Risky Removals
A group of noncitizens with final removal orders filed a federal lawsuit last month, arguing that deportations to countries like El Salvador, Honduras, or Panama—where they have no ties—put their lives in danger. U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy, who temporarily blocked the policy, will consider extending his order and certifying a class of noncitizens to protect them from such removals.
Plaintiffs Fear Persecution, Torture
Lawyers for the plaintiffs stress the urgency of halting the policy, stating that it “may be the difference between safety and torture, life and death.” The lawsuit claims that migrants are being removed without a chance to express fears of persecution or torture. In one case, a Guatemalan man was sent to Mexico despite prior rape and threats against him there.
Allegations of Violating Court Orders
The Trump administration is accused of defying Judge Murphy’s order by deporting over a dozen migrants to El Salvador. Among them was Maiker Espinoza Escalona, allegedly linked to Tren de Aragua, a charge his family denies. Escalona was separated from his partner and infant and detained at El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison. His family insists he was wrongfully targeted.
Government Defends Policy, Critics Call It Inadequate
The Department of Justice argues that the court lacks jurisdiction over final removal orders and insists new policies ensure deported migrants will not face harm. They claim DHS now seeks diplomatic assurances and screens migrants for protection eligibility under the United Nations’ Convention Against Torture. However, plaintiffs’ lawyers call these safeguards “woefully inadequate,” citing recent deportations as evidence.
Families Demand Justice
Families of deported individuals continue to push for accountability. “They are liars,” said Raida, Escalona’s mother-in-law, rejecting claims that many Venezuelans are gang members. “We’re distraught—I don’t wish this on anyone.”
As Judge Murphy weighs his decision, the case underscores ongoing battles over U.S. immigration policies and human rights protections.
Keep up with this federal judiciary development on deportations with us on Que Onda Magazine.