Federal Judge Suspects Trump Administration Deported 2-Year-Old US Citizen to Honduras Without Due Process
GREENBELT, Md. — In a startling court filing on April 26, 2025, U.S. District Judge Terry A. Doughty expressed alarm over suspicions that the Trump administration deported a 2-year-old U.S. citizen to Honduras with “no meaningful process.” The toddler, apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier this week alongside her Honduran-born mother and sister, was reportedly sent to Honduras without a hearing or review, raising serious questions about due process violations.
Judge Doughty’s filing highlights a growing tension between the judiciary and the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies. The case emerged as the child’s father, a legal U.S. resident, fought to keep his family in the country. “Our strong suspicion is that the Government just deported a U.S. citizen with no meaningful process,” Doughty wrote, underscoring the gravity of the incident.
The administration has faced criticism for its rapid deportation tactics, often invoking national security concerns to justify expedited removals. However, deporting a U.S. citizen, especially a minor, without due process could constitute a significant legal violation. Posts on X reflect public outrage, with users amplifying the judge’s concerns and calling for accountability.
Details remain scarce, as the Justice Department has not yet responded to the filing. The case parallels other recent clashes, such as the illegal deportation of Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador, which prompted judicial rebukes and Supreme Court intervention. Advocates argue that such incidents reflect a broader pattern of disregarding legal protections for immigrants and citizens alike.
Judge Doughty has demanded immediate answers from the administration, including the child’s current whereabouts and steps to rectify the situation. As the case unfolds, it could further escalate the ongoing conflict between federal courts and the executive branch over immigration enforcement
