Judge Advances Contempt Inquiry into US Administration’s Actions with Venezuelan Migrants Sent to El Salvador Prison

A federal judge is moving forward with a contempt investigation into the Trump administration for sending Venezuelan migrants to an El Salvador prison instead of returning them to the US. The inquiry aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding this decision.

International

-Sathish Raman

Updated: Thursday, November 20, 2025, 3:03 [IST]

A federal judge is moving forward with a contempt investigation into the Trump administration's actions regarding Venezuelan migrants. The inquiry focuses on the failure to redirect planes carrying these migrants back to the US in March. US District Judge James Boasberg, based in Washington, has been granted authority by a recent ruling from the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to proceed with this investigation.

On March 15, Judge Boasberg ordered planes carrying alleged gang members to return to the United States. However, these aircraft landed in El Salvador instead, where the migrants were detained in a well-known prison. "I am authorised to proceed just as I intended to do in April seven months ago," Boasberg stated during a hearing. He also expressed his determination to uncover what transpired on that day.

Contempt Probe Details

The judge suggested that having witnesses testify under oath might be the most effective method for conducting this contempt probe. Alternatively, he mentioned that the government could submit written declarations detailing who instructed the defiance of his ruling. Boasberg aims to commence any hearings related to this matter on December 1.

The Trump administration has denied any wrongdoing, arguing that the directive to return the planes was issued verbally in court and not included in a written order. US Justice Department attorney Tiberius Davis conveyed the government's objection to further contempt proceedings during discussions with Judge Boasberg.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Judge Boasberg has requested attorneys involved in the case to identify potential witnesses and propose plans for conducting the contempt investigation. This step is crucial in determining whether there is enough evidence to refer the matter for prosecution. The judge's decision follows a recent appellate court ruling that affirmed his authority to pursue this inquiry.

The investigation seeks to clarify who was responsible for defying Boasberg's order and why the planes were not redirected as instructed. The outcome of this probe could have significant legal implications for those involved in the decision-making process within the Trump administration at that time.

The situation highlights ongoing legal challenges related to immigration policies and enforcement actions taken during the Trump administration. As this case progresses, it may shed light on broader issues concerning compliance with judicial orders and accountability within government operations.

With inputs from PTI