Two federal judges in Texas and New York have temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s efforts to deport Venezuelan nationals under the Alien Enemies Act. This decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that allowed deportations but cautioned the need for due process, particularly for individuals accused of gang affiliations.
On April 9, 2025, U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. in Texas and Judge Alvin Hellerstein in New York issued rulings that prevent the deportation of Venezuelan nationals without proper legal proceedings.
Rodriguez granted a temporary restraining order for three Venezuelan nationals held at the El Valle Detention Center, stating that their removal would likely cause “immediate and irreparable injury.”
Hellerstein ruled that individuals in the Southern District of New York must be given notice and an opportunity to contest their deportation before any action is taken.
The Supreme Court’s recent decision mandates that individuals slated for deportation must be informed and allowed to contest their status in court.
The ACLU and other civil rights organizations have raised alarms about the conditions in El Salvador’s CECOT prison, where deported individuals may face harsh treatment and lack of legal recourse.
Both judges have scheduled hearings to further evaluate the cases of the detained Venezuelans. The Texas ruling is set to be reviewed on April 23, while the New York case will be addressed on April 22. These hearings will determine whether the temporary restraining orders will be extended or modified.
The Alien Enemies Act, enacted in 1798, allows the government to detain and deport noncitizens during wartime or in cases of invasion. Historically, it has been used sparingly, primarily during World War II. Recently, the Trump administration invoked this act to remove dangerous alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, who pose a threat to national security.
