Denver, Colorado – A federal judge in Colorado has intervened to temporarily halt the deportations of immigrants potentially facing removal under President Donald Trump’s implementation of the Alien Enemies Act, an 18th-century law. The move, issued by District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney, followed a request made by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of two Venezuelan men in Denver who feared being falsely implicated in gang activities. President Trump has raised concerns about the gang Tren de Aragua infiltrating the U.S., while critics argue that he is using the gang to promote an exaggerated anti-immigrant narrative.
Judge Sweeney’s order prevents the removal of noncitizens currently in custody in the District of Colorado who may be subject to deportation under the Alien Enemies Act invoked by President Trump. The Act, historically used only three times in American history, was last utilized to intern Japanese-American citizens during World War II. The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that individuals being deported under the declaration are entitled to a hearing in federal court.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, federal judges in New York and Texas imposed temporary stays on deportations in their respective areas until the Trump administration establishes a procedure for permitting appeals. Judge Sweeney’s order aligns with these actions and will remain in effect for 14 days, with a scheduled hearing set for April 21 to further address the case.
President Trump’s invocation of the Alien Enemies Act has sparked debate on the treatment of immigrants and the government’s authority in immigration matters. The recent legal actions reflect a nationwide effort to ensure due process and proper judicial review for individuals faced with deportation under this particular law. The case in Colorado underscores the complexities and implications surrounding immigration policies under the current administration, prompting continued scrutiny and legal challenges.