Trump Administration Faces Rebuke from Federal Judge as Deportation of Unaccompanied Guatemalan Minors is Blocked
In a surprising turn of events, Judge Timothy Kelly, a Trump appointee, has ordered a halt to the deportation of Guatemalan unaccompanied migrant children with active immigration cases. This decision comes after the Trump administration attempted to deport 76 Guatemalan minors being held in US custody on August 31, sparking a lawsuit and emergency hearing.
The attempt to deport these children was based on the initial claim by the Justice Department that the children's parents had requested their deportation. However, this claim was later rescinded. An internal report by the Guatemalan Attorney General showed that most parents of the roughly 600 Guatemalan children in US custody could not be contacted. Moreover, a Guatemalan government report clarified that most of these parents did not want their children returned to Guatemala.
Judge Kelly's ruling states that the Trump administration's explanation for the deportation attempt "crumbled like a house of cards" in light of the Guatemalan government report. In a 43-page opinion, he blocked the rapid deportation of Guatemalan unaccompanied children who have not received a final removal order or permission from the US attorney general to depart while their cases remain active.
The ruling has caused concern among some, with Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the US Department of Homeland Security, stating that the ruling would prevent children from reuniting with their parents. However, it is important to note that many of the contacted parents did not want their children returned to Guatemala, according to the Guatemalan government report.
The ordeal has been distressing for the children involved. Reports from shelters indicate that a young girl in McAllen, Texas, was so scared that she vomited upon learning of the potential deportation. Some children were even put on planes, causing them to feel worried and confused.
Migrant children who arrive at US borders without a parent or guardian are classified as unaccompanied and sent to federal government-run shelters until they can be placed with a family member or foster home. The mother of a 16-year-old boy, who could be subject to the Trump administration's deportation effort, expressed that her son wants to remain in California. She works 15 hours a day at a restaurant and makes just enough money to cover rent and food.
This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding the treatment and deportation of unaccompanied migrant children in the United States. As the situation continues to unfold, it is hoped that the best interests of these children will remain at the forefront of all decisions made.
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