Story perspectives

Judge Questions Deportation of U.S. Citizen Toddler

4/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A federal judge in Louisiana raised alarm over the deportation of two-year-old V.M.L., a U.S. citizen, to Honduras without due process. Her father fought desperately to keep her home, but she was sent away with her mother. A crucial hearing on May 16 will delve into the troubling details of this case.

History

Historical Context

A federal judge's concern over the deportation of a U.S. citizen child echoes historical struggles for immigrant rights. In 1953, the Supreme Court ruled in *Kwong Hai Chew v. Colding* that lawful permanent residents cannot be deported without due process. This case established essential protections against arbitrary deportation, highlighting ongoing debates about due process in immigration law, particularly for vulnerable populations like children.

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Story summary

A federal judge in Louisiana raised alarm over the deportation of two-year-old V.M.L., a U.S. citizen, to Honduras without due process. Her father fought desperately to keep her home, but she was sent away with her mother. A crucial hearing on May 16 will delve into the troubling details of this case.

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