A federal judge in Maryland has ordered the Trump administration to help return “Christian,” a 20-year-old Venezuelan deported to El Salvador, ruling the action violated a court settlement protecting unaccompanied minors seeking asylum.
The judge called it a breach of contract, referencing a 2024 agreement that guaranteed due process.
Christian, convicted in Texas for cocaine possession, was deported under the Alien Enemies Act. The government argued this excluded him from the agreement, but the court disagreed.
The case highlights growing tensions over deportations of alleged gang members, particularly under presidential authority. Another man, Javier, also faced imminent deportation before receiving a restraining order.
Lawmakers visiting El Salvador demanded access to a Maryland man, Abrego García, deported despite court orders. The White House argues courts can’t interfere in such deportations under the Alien Enemies Act.
