Federal Judge Blocks Deportation of Guatemalan Migrant Children Across U.S.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge has blocked President Donald Trump’s administration from immediately deporting Guatemalan migrant children arriving in the U.S. alone. This crucial ruling aims to protect vulnerable minors, amid ongoing challenges against the administration's stringent immigration policies.

The decision, delivered by U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly, comes on the heels of the Trump administration's controversial attempt to send these children back to their home country. Administration officials claimed their actions were focused on reuniting children with parents asking for their return. However, Judge Kelly pointed out a lack of evidence supporting this claim, stating, 'There is no evidence before the Court that the parents of these children sought their return.'

Previously, a temporary order in place had already been preventing the removal of Guatemalan children, but it was nearing expiration. Fortunately, the judge has now extended this protection indefinitely through a preliminary injunction, though the government retains the right to appeal.

While the judge did not accede to advocates' requests to extend protections to children from additional countries, he indicated that any future attempts to remove children in a similar manner would likely be illegal.

The administration's plan included a rapid deportation operation that began late on August 30, informing shelters that children should be prepared for immediate departure. Although initially close to 457 children were identified for potential removal, the number dropped to 327, with some already boarded on planes before the legal action intervened.

Children crossing the southern border alone typically fall under the Office of Refugee Resettlement’s care, where they usually reside in shelters until placed with suitable sponsors. Advocates argue that many of these children are fleeing dangerous circumstances, thereby necessitating rigorous legal oversight to prevent unlawful deportations.

This ruling marks a notable victory for immigrant rights advocates and underscores the complex legal landscape surrounding the treatment of unaccompanied minors in the U.S.