Story perspectives

Immigration Judges Ignore Court Ruling on Detention Policy

1/17/2026

41 4

Summary

Story summary

On January 16, 2026, Chief Immigration Judge Teresa Riley stated that immigration judges are not required to follow a federal court ruling against the Trump administration's mandatory detention policy.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts revealed this directive in a lawsuit challenging the policy, claiming it indicates a disregard for court rulings.
Following Riley's email, reports indicated that immigration judges denied bond hearing requests, despite earlier compliance with a ruling by Judge Patti Saris.
The Justice Department did not provide any comments regarding the situation.

1 of 1

Story summary

On January 16, 2026, Chief Immigration Judge Teresa Riley stated that immigration judges are not required to follow a federal court ruling against the Trump administration's mandatory detention policy.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts revealed this directive in a lawsuit challenging the policy, claiming it indicates a disregard for court rulings.
Following Riley's email, reports indicated that immigration judges denied bond hearing requests, despite earlier compliance with a ruling by Judge Patti Saris.
The Justice Department did not provide any comments regarding the situation.