Case: W.J.C.C. v. Trump

3:25-cv-00153 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania

Filed Date: May 21, 2025

Case Ongoing

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Case Summary

This case is one of several lawsuits challenging the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to detain and deport noncitizens without due process. You can see all of the cases here. On May 21, 2025, an individual facing imminent removal filed an emergency petition for a writ of habeas corpus in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The petitioner sued the President, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Attorney General, and the Acting Director of U.S. …

This case is one of several lawsuits challenging the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to detain and deport noncitizens without due process. You can see all of the cases here.

On May 21, 2025, an individual facing imminent removal filed an emergency petition for a writ of habeas corpus in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The petitioner sued the President, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Attorney General, and the Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, all in their official capacities, alleging violations of the Alien Enemies Act, the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause, and habeas corpus protections. The petitioner sought to halt removal and secure notice and judicial review. Judge Stephanie L. Haines was assigned to the case.

Alongside the petition, the petitioner filed a motion for an emergency ex parte temporary restraining order on May 21, 2025, which Judge Haines granted the next day, on May 22, 2025. The order barred removal under the Presidential Proclamation entitled “Invocation of the Alien Enemies Act Regarding the Invasion of The United States by Tren De Aragua,” and barred transfer out of the Western District of Pennsylvania under provisions of law other than the Immigration and Nationality Act. It also required the government to provide the petitioner and counsel with notice of the removal. The 21-day notice period was established later in the preliminary injunction.

On June 4, 2025, Judge Haines issued an opinion confirming jurisdiction and weighing the equities. 2025 WL 1572856.  She noted the case’s connection to her earlier decision in A.S.R. v. Trump, where she required notice and an opportunity to be heard. Judge Haines extended the TRO through June 19, finding irreparable harm absent continued relief and emphasizing consistency with the procedural protections established in A.S.R.

On June 9, 2025, the petitioner filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, which the court granted in part on June 18. 2025 WL 1703682. The preliminary injunction required the government to comply with the notice requirements established in a previous case, A.S.R. v. Trump, which mandated at least 21 days’ advance notice before removal in a language the petitioner understands and to his counsel. The court denied the petitioner’s request to bar his transfer from the Western District of Pennsylvania, except as pursuant to Title 8 of the United States Code. Finally, Judge Haines referred the petitioner’s challenge to continued detention without a bond hearing to a magistrate judge for further proceedings.

On July 15, 2025, the defendants appealed the preliminary injunction grant to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, arguing that the court erred by imposing heightened notice requirements.

The case remains pending on the merits in the district court, and the appeal of the preliminary injunction is ongoing before the Third Circuit. On July 29, 2025, held all motions in abeyance pending the decision of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in W.M.M. v. Trump, No. 25-10534 (5th Cir.) and the Supreme Court’s decision on any petition for writ of certiorari therefrom.

Summary Authors

Catherine Grosso (6/25/2025)

Victoria Tan (8/2/2025)

Related Cases

A.S.R. v. Trump, Western District of Pennsylvania (2025)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/70336200/parties/wjcc-v-trump/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff

Esq., Ian A.

Esq., Daniel Galindo,

Esq., Lee P.

Attorney for Defendant

Esq., Laura S.

Expert/Monitor/Master/Other

Alfredson, Peter Cameron (Pennsylvania)

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document
4

3:25-cv-00153

Temporary Restraining Order

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

Order/Opinion
21

3:25-cv-00153

Order of Court

June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025

Order/Opinion

2025 WL 1572856

20

3:25-cv-00153

Opinion

June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025

Order/Opinion

2025 WL 1572856

37

3:25-cv-00153

Opinion

J.C.C. v. Trump

June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

Order/Opinion

2025 WL 1703682

Resources

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/70336200/wjcc-v-trump/

Last updated Nov. 25, 2025, 3:19 p.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

Emergency PETITION for Writ of Habeas Corpus (Filing fee $5, receipt number APAWDC-8879049), filed by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Exhibit 1) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/21/2025)

May 21, 2025

May 21, 2025

2

Emergency MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/21/2025)

May 21, 2025

May 21, 2025

3

BRIEF in Support re 2 Motion for TRO filed by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/21/2025)

May 21, 2025

May 21, 2025

4

TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER - Upon consideration of Petitioner-Plaintiff's Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order, it is ORDERED that Petitioner's Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order is hereby GRANTED without notice, due to the extreme speed at which removal from this District may occur and the irreparable consequences of the Court's potential loss of jurisdiction; and that Respondents (excluding the President with respect to any injunctive relief), their agents, representatives, and all persons or entities acting in concert with them are hereby: 1) ORDERED, pending further order of this Court, not to remove Petitioner from the United States under the Presidential Proclamation entitled "Invocation of the Alien Enemies Act Regarding the Invasion of The United States by Tren De Aragua"; 2) ORDERED, pending further order of this Court, not to transfer Petitioner from the Western District of Pennsylvania; and 3) ORDERED, pending further order of this Court, to provide Petitioner and his counsel with notice of any designation as an Alien Enemy under the Proclamation at least 21 days prior to any removal pursuant to the Proclamation. It is further ORDERED that Petitioner shall be required to furnish security for costs in the amount of $1.00. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 5/22/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

Clearinghouse
5

MOTION Proceed Under Pseudonym by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

6

BRIEF in Support re 5 MOTION Proceed Under Pseudonym filed by W.J.C.C. (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

7

ORDER OF COURT - IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that Petitioner's counsel is directed to serve Respondents with a copy of the Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus, Emergency Application for Temporary Restraining Order and all accompanying papers, along with a copy of the Court's Order at ECF No. 4 and this Order, by email to the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and promptly to file proof of such service on the docket; and, IT FURTHER IS ORDERED that Respondents shall file a response to Petitioner's Emergency Application for a Temporary Restraining Order (ECF No. 2 ) on or before May 27, 2025, and Petitioner may file a Reply on or before May 29, 2025; and, IT FURTHER IS ORDERED that a hearing on Petitioner's Emergency Application for a Temporary Restraining Order (ECF No. 2 ) is hereby scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., by TEAMS audio conference before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. The Court will provide the TEAMS information to counsel via email in advance of the hearing. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 5/22/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

8

ORDER OF COURT - Upon due consideration of Petitioner's motion for leave to proceed under pseudonym (ECF No. 5 ) and for good cause shown, IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner's motion for leave to proceed under pseudonym (ECF No. 5 ) hereby is GRANTED. Petitioner hereby is granted leave to proceed under the pseudonym W.J.C.C. before this Court in this action. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 5/22/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

9

AFFIDAVIT of Service re 1 Emergency PETITION for Writ of Habeas Corpus, 2 Emergency MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order, 3 BRIEF in Support, 4 TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER, 7 ORDER OF COURT, served on U.S. Attorney's Office on May 22, 2025, filed by W.J.C.C. (Rose, Ian) Modified text on 5/23/2025 to add document linkage. (dmh) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

10

NOTICE of Appearance by Laura Schleich Irwin on behalf of PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 05/22/2025)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

Judge Stephanie L. Haines added. (dmh)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

11

TRO BOND to be placed into the Local Court Registry as per Order of Court signed by U.S. District Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 5/22/2025 at ECF 4 . (jkn) (Entered: 05/23/2025)

May 23, 2025

May 23, 2025

CLERK'S OFFICE QUALITY CONTROL MESSAGE re 9 Affidavit of Service. ERROR: Document incorrectly linked. CORRECTION: Linked to appropriate documents. This message is for informational purposes only. (dmh)

May 23, 2025

May 23, 2025

12

MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Irwin, Laura). Errata filed at 14 . Modified text on 5/29/2025. (dmh) (Entered: 05/27/2025)

May 27, 2025

May 27, 2025

13

RESPONSE to Motion re 2 Emergency MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit, # 2 Exhibit, # 3 Exhibit, # 4 Exhibit, # 5 Exhibit, # 6 Exhibit, # 7 Exhibit, # 8 Exhibit, # 9 Exhibit, # 10 Affidavit) (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 05/27/2025)

May 27, 2025

May 27, 2025

14

Errata re 12 Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. Reason for Correction: Failed to identify all defendants. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 05/27/2025)

May 27, 2025

May 27, 2025

15

ORDER granting 12 Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages. The Court orders that Respondents may exceed the twenty-five (25) page limit imposed by Interim Standing Order Section G and may file a Response to Motion for Temporary Restraining Order not to exceed 26 pages, excluding tables. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 5/28/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 05/29/2025)

May 29, 2025

May 29, 2025

16

REPLY to Response to Motion re 13 Response to Motion, In Support of Temporary Restraining Order filed by W.J.C.C. (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 05/29/2025)

May 29, 2025

May 29, 2025

17

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Stephanie L. Haines: Hearing on Motion for Emergency TRO held on 5/30/2025. Court convened for Hearing on Motion for Emergency TRO. Counsel entered appearances. The Court asked the parties to provide any arguments that they wanted to offer beyond that set forth in the briefs, as well as their proposals for how the case should move forward. Petitioner indicated that he is requesting that the Court extend the TRO for a period of time. Respondents stated that they believe the Court should dissolve the TRO and deny the Petition. The Court then asked Respondents whether they intend to transfer Petitioner away from MVPC. Respondents indicated that they have no such plans at this time. However, Respondents argued that the Court should adjust the language in its temporary restraining order regarding the movement of Petitioner. The Court also asked Respondents whether there was any possibility that Petitioner would be deemed to be subject to the Alien Enemies Act and the Presidential Proclamation in the future. Respondents could not say whether Petitioner would or would not be so designated in the future. Finally, the Court asked Petitioner about the irreparable harm that he is facing in the absence of injunction relief. He indicated that he is facing irreparable harm because Respondents have not committed (via a stipulation or the like) to not removing Petitioner under the Alien Enemies Act and the Proclamation without first giving twenty-one (21) days' notice, as well as other requirements articulated by this Court. Ultimately, the Court directed the parties to submit by 5:00 P.M. on Monday, June 2, 2025: (1) any stipulations that they reach and (2) proposed orders regarding how the case should move forward (or a joint proposed order if they are able to reach an agreement). The Court informed Respondents that it would entertain suggestions regarding the language barring the movement of W.J.C.C. in any order that the Court issues in the future. After the parties indicated that they did not have any additional questions or issues to discuss, the Court concluded the Hearing. (Court Reporter: Shirley Hall) (dag) (Entered: 05/30/2025)

May 30, 2025

May 30, 2025

18

Proposed Order re 2 Motion for TRO by W.J.C.C. (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 06/02/2025)

June 2, 2025

June 2, 2025

19

RESPONSE to 17 Hearing, filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A) (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/02/2025)

June 2, 2025

June 2, 2025

20

OPINION - For all of the foregoing reasons, the Court finds that good cause exists to extend the T.R.O. in this matter until June 19, 2025, at 9:32 A.M. Fed.R.Civ.P. 65(b)(2). That T.R.O. will be consistent with the foregoing Opinion. An appropriate Order follows, and as more fully stated in said Opinion. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/4/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/04/2025)

June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025

Clearinghouse
21

ORDER OF COURT - Upon consideration of Petitioner W.J.C.C.'s Emergency Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order (ECF No. 2 ), and for the reasons set forth in the foregoing Opinion, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED IN PART and DENIED IN PART. Specifically, the Court GRANTS the Motion (ECF No. 2 ) insofar as the Court will require Respondents to provide the following notice before removing W.J.C.C. pursuant to the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 (the "AEA"). 50 U.S.C. § 21, and President Donald J. Trump's Proclamation entitled "invocation of the [AEA] Regarding the Invasion of the United States by Tren De Aragua[,]" (the "Proclamation"). 90 Fed. Reg. 13034, invoking the AEA. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C.'s Motion (ECF No. 2 ) is GRANTED insofar as Respondents, their officers, agents, servants, employees, attorneys, and any persons who are in active concert or participation with them, are hereby enjoined from transferring W.J.C.C. from the Western District of Pennsylvania expect as pursuant to Title 8 of the United States Code. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C.'s Motion at ECF No. 2 is DENIED in all other respects. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C. may file a Motion for Preliminary Injunction by Monday, June 9, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. If W.J.C.C. so files, Respondents shall file their Response by Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. W.J.C.C. may then file a Reply by Friday, June 13, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that, if W.J.C.C. files a Motion for a Preliminary Injunction, the Court will conduct a Preliminary Injunction hearing on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. by TEAMS audio conference before the undersigned. The Court will provide the TEAMS information to counsel via email in advance of the hearing. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that this Temporary Restraining Order shall expire upon the earlier of: 1) the court's resolution of any Motion for Preliminary Injunction filed by W.J.C.C. or 2) June 19, 2025, at 9:32 A.M. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C. may file an Amended Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus in this matter by Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C.'s nominal bond of $1.00, which he paid on May 23, 2025, (ECF No. 11 ), remains appropriate for the entry of this Order, and as more fully stated in said Order of Court. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/4/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/04/2025)

June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025

Clearinghouse

Set/Reset Hearings: Telephonic Preliminary Injunction Hearing set for 6/16/2025, at 1:00 PM before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. (dlg)

June 6, 2025

June 6, 2025

22

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 06/09/2025)

June 9, 2025

June 9, 2025

23

BRIEF in Support re 22 Motion for Preliminary Injunction filed by W.J.C.C. (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 06/09/2025)

June 9, 2025

June 9, 2025

24

NOTICE of Appearance by Laura Schleich Irwin on behalf of PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/11/2025)

June 11, 2025

June 11, 2025

25

First AMENDED COMPLAINT and Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus against PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT, filed by W.J.C.C.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit 2) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 06/11/2025)

June 11, 2025

June 11, 2025

Update Answer Deadline: Answer due from PAMELA BONDI on 6/25/2025; PETE HEGSETH on 6/25/2025; TODD LYONS on 6/25/2025; BRIAN MCSHANE on 6/25/2025; KRISTI NOEM on 6/25/2025; LEONARD ODDO on 6/25/2025; MARCO RUBIO on 6/25/2025; DONALD J. TRUMP on 6/25/2025; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE on 6/25/2025; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY on 6/25/2025; U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT on 6/25/2025; U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT on 6/25/2025 (dmh)

June 11, 2025

June 11, 2025

26

CONSENT to Trial/Jurisdiction by US Magistrate Judge OR District Judge Option, by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/12/2025)

June 12, 2025

June 12, 2025

27

Unopposed MOTION for Leave to File to Exceed Page Limits by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/12/2025)

June 12, 2025

June 12, 2025

28

BRIEF in Opposition re 22 Motion for Preliminary Injunction filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit K, # 2 Exhibit L, # 3 Exhibit M, # 4 Exhibit N, # 5 Exhibit O, # 6 Exhibit P) (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/12/2025)

June 12, 2025

June 12, 2025

29

NOTICE of Appearance by Peter Cameron Alfredson on behalf of W.J.C.C. (Alfredson, Peter) (Entered: 06/12/2025)

June 12, 2025

June 12, 2025

30

Consent MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply and Extension of Pages by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) (Rose, Ian) (Entered: 06/13/2025)

June 13, 2025

June 13, 2025

31

ORDER granting 30 Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/13/2025. (cjm) (Entered: 06/13/2025)

June 13, 2025

June 13, 2025

32

Remark: Set/Reset Hearings: Telephonic Preliminary Injunction Hearing scheduled for 6/16/2025 is RESCHEDULED to 6/18/2025, at 1:30 p.m. before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. Text-only entry. No PDF document will issue. (dlg) (Entered: 06/16/2025)

June 16, 2025

June 16, 2025

Set/Reset Hearings: Telephonic Preliminary Injunction Hearing scheduled for 6/16/2025 is RESCHEDULED to 6/18/2025, at 1:30 p.m. before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. Text-only entry. No PDF document will issue. (dlg)

June 16, 2025

June 16, 2025

33

ORDER - Upon consideration of Respondents' request to exceed page limits, and for good cause shown, the Court orders that Respondents may exceed the twenty-five (25) page limit imposed by Interim Standing Order Section G and may file a Response to Motion for Preliminary Injunction not to exceed 35 pages, excluding tables. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/16/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/17/2025)

June 17, 2025

June 17, 2025

RECAP
34

REPLY to Response to Motion re 28 Brief in Opposition to Motion, filed by W.J.C.C.. (Alfredson, Peter) (Entered: 06/17/2025)

June 17, 2025

June 17, 2025

35

NOTICE of Appearance by Lee J. Karl on behalf of PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Karl, Lee) (Entered: 06/18/2025)

June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

36

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Stephanie L. Haines: Motion for a Preliminary Injunction Hearing held on 6/18/2025 re 22 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by W.J.C.C. Court convened for Hearing on Motion for a Preliminary Injunction. Counsel entered their appearances. The Court first heard from Petitioner regarding his request for a Preliminary Injunction. The Court also asked certain questions of counsel for Petitioner. The Court then heard from and asked questions of counsel for Respondents. Lastly, Petitioner lodged his reply to Respondents' arguments. Thereafter, the Court indicated that it would take the matter under advisement and issue a ruling on Petitioner's Motion for a Preliminary Injunction before the Court's Temporary Restraining Order expires. There being no other issues to discuss, the Court concluded the Hearing. (Court Reporter: Shirley Hall) (dag) (Entered: 06/18/2025)

June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

37

OPINION - For all of the foregoing reasons, the Court GRANTS IN PART and DENIES IN PART W.J.C.C.'s Motion for a Preliminary Injunction at ECF No. 22 . An appropriate Order follows, and as more fully stated in said Opinion. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/18/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/18/2025)

June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

Clearinghouse
38

ORDER OF COURT - Upon due consideration of Petitioner W.J.C.C.'s "Motion for Preliminary Injunction[,]" (ECF No. 22 ), and for the reasons set forth in the foregoing Opinion, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED insofar as the Court will require Respondents to provide the notice below before removing W.J.C.C. pursuant to the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 (the "AEA"), 50 U.S.C. § 21, and President Trump's Proclamation entitled "Invocation of the [AEA] Regarding the Invasion of the United States by Tren De Aragua[,] (the "Proclamation"), 90 Fed. Reg. 13034, invoking the AEA. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondents, their officers, agents, servants, employees, attorneys, and any persons who are in active concert or participation with them, are hereby: Enjoined, pending further order of this court, from removing W.J.C.C. pursuant to the AEA and the Proclamation, unless Respondents first provide: (1) twenty-one (21) days' notice and an "opportunity to be heard" to W.J.C.C., (2) notice to W.J.C.C. that clearly articulates the fact that he is subject to removal under the Proclamation and the AEA, (3) notice to W.J.C.C. in English and Spanish, the language of the one sought to be expelled, and if needed, Spanish-to-English interpreters shall be provided for any necessary hearings, and (4) notice to W.J.C.C.'s counsel of all of the foregoing. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that nothing in this Order shall be construed to bar the removal, or release from immigration detention, of W.J.C.C. pursuant to proceedings held under the Immigration and Nationality Act (the "INA"). IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the nominal security of $1.00 that W.J.C.C. previously posted in this matter (ECF No. 11 ) remains appropriate for the entry of this Order. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that W.J.C.C.'s Motion at ECF No. 22 is DENIED in all other respects. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that, on or before June 27, 2025, W.J.C.C. and Respondents shall provide to this Court a status update regarding how this Court should address W.J.C.C.'s claim regarding the AEA and the Proclamation (ECF No. 25 at Paragraphs 64-65) moving forward. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that, only insofar as W.J.C.C. is lodging a claim relative to his continued detention absent an appropriate bond hearing, (ECF No. 25 at Paragraphs 66-67), the Clerk of Court shall refer this matter to a Magistrate Judge to address that claim in the first instance. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/18/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/18/2025)

June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

Judge Stephanie L. Haines no longer assigned to case. (ept)

June 24, 2025

June 24, 2025

Judge Stephanie L. Haines added as Presider and Magistrate Judge Patricia L. Dodge added as Referral, per 38 Order. (ept)

June 24, 2025

June 24, 2025

39

RESPONSE IN OPPOSITION to 25 Amended Complaint, filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/25/2025)

June 25, 2025

June 25, 2025

40

MOTION for Extension of Time to File Status Report by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) Modified text on 6/27/2025. (mqe) (Entered: 06/27/2025)

June 27, 2025

June 27, 2025

41

ORDER OF COURT - Upon due consideration of Respondents' "Unopposed Motion for Extension of Time to File Status Reports[,]" (ECF No. 40 ), IT IS ORDERED that Respondents' Motion at ECF No. 40 hereby is GRANTED. Petitioner and Respondents shall file their Reports on or before Monday, June 30, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 6/27/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 06/27/2025)

June 27, 2025

June 27, 2025

42

RESPONSE to 38 Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction, filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 06/30/2025)

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

43

ORDER OF COURT - Upon due consideration of Respondents' "Response to Order of Court of June 18, 2025 (ECF 38 )[,]" (ECF No. 42 ), IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Court's Order at ECF No. 38 REMAINS IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT. Adjudication of Petitioner's claim regarding the AEA and the Proclamation (ECF No. 25 at Paragraphs 64-65) is STAYED pending further Order of Court. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondents shall provide an Amended Status Update to this Court on or before July 15, 2025, along with their request regarding how Petitioner's claim regarding the AEA and the Proclamation (ECF No. 25 at Paragraphs 64-65) shall advance. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Petitioner's other claim, that regarding his continued detention absent an appropriate bond hearing, (ECF No. 25 at Paragraphs 66-67), remains referred to Magistrate Judge Dodge for consideration in the first instance. Nothing in this Order shall be construed as limiting Magistrate Judge Dodge's ability to oversee and advance the consideration of that claim as she sees fit. Signed by Judge Stephanie L. Haines on 7/8/2025. (dlg) (Entered: 07/08/2025)

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

RECAP
44

REPLY BRIEF re 39 Response in Opposition, filed by W.J.C.C. (Alfredson, Peter) (Entered: 07/14/2025)

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

45

RESPONSE filed by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 07/14/2025)

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

46

NOTICE by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT (Irwin, Laura) Modified text on 7/15/2025; removed from public view and refiled at 47 . (tla) (Entered: 07/15/2025)

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

47

NOTICE OF APPEAL as to 38 Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction, by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. The Clerk's Office hereby certifies the record and the docket sheet available through ECF to be the certified list in lieu of the record and/or the certified copy of the docket entries. The Transcript Purchase Order form will NOT be mailed to the parties. The form is available on the Court's internet site. (tla) (Entered: 07/15/2025)

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

CLERK'S OFFICE QUALITY CONTROL MESSAGE re 46 Notice,. ERROR: Wrong event selected. CORRECTION: Re-docketed as Notice of Appeal. This message is for informational purposes only. (tla)

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

48

USCA Case Number 25-2332 for 47 Notice of Appeal, filed by U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, LEONARD ODDO, DONALD J. TRUMP, TODD LYONS, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, MARCO RUBIO, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, PETE HEGSETH, PAMELA BONDI, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT. USCA Case Manager Laurie (DOCUMENT IS RESTRICTED AND CAN ONLY BE VIEWED BY COURT STAFF) (lr) (Entered: 07/16/2025)

July 16, 2025

July 16, 2025

49

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings re Motions held on Friday, May 30, 2025, before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. Court Reporter Shirley Hall, Email: shirleyhall_uscra@yahoo.com. The parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely, electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days. For redaction purposes, or otherwise, during this 90 day period a copy of the transcript may be purchased from the court reporter or viewed at the clerk's office public terminal. Any Notice of Intent to Request Redaction and Redaction Request must be separately mailed to the court reporter of said proceedings. Notice of Intent for Redaction of Personal Data Identifiers due by 8/21/2025. Redaction Request due 9/4/2025. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 9/15/2025. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 11/12/2025. (sah) (Entered: 08/14/2025)

Aug. 14, 2025

Aug. 14, 2025

50

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings re Oral Argument held on June 18, 2025, before Judge Stephanie L. Haines. Court Reporter Shirley Hall, Email: shirleyhall_uscra@yahoo.com. The parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely, electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days. For redaction purposes, or otherwise, during this 90 day period a copy of the transcript may be purchased from the court reporter or viewed at the clerk's office public terminal. Any Notice of Intent to Request Redaction and Redaction Request must be separately mailed to the court reporter of said proceedings. Notice of Intent for Redaction of Personal Data Identifiers due by 9/2/2025. Redaction Request due 9/15/2025. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 9/24/2025. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 11/24/2025. (sah) (Entered: 08/24/2025)

Aug. 24, 2025

Aug. 24, 2025

51

NOTICE REGARDING DEVELOPMENTS IN PETITIONERS IMMIGRATION PROCEEDINGS by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Exh. 3, IJ's Order Granting Withholding) (Alfredson, Peter) (Entered: 09/19/2025)

Sept. 19, 2025

Sept. 19, 2025

52

NOTICE in Response by PAMELA BONDI, PETE HEGSETH, TODD LYONS, BRIAN MCSHANE, KRISTI NOEM, LEONARD ODDO, MARCO RUBIO, DONALD J. TRUMP, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT, U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT re 51 Notice (Irwin, Laura) (Entered: 09/23/2025)

Sept. 23, 2025

Sept. 23, 2025

53

ORDER. In the Second Claim for Relief in Petitioner's 25 First Amended Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus, he claimed that he was entitled to habeas relief in the form of a constitutionally adequate bond hearing because the Immigration Judge at the 5/13/25 hearing allegedly did not require the government to meet its burden of proof before subjecting him to mandatory detention without bond. No later than by 10/13/25, Petitioner shall show cause why the Second Claim for Relief is not moot given that, as explained by the parties in their recent submissions at 51 and 52, a final order of removal has been issued and Petitioner is now being detained under 8 U.S.C. § 1231 and currently subject to mandatory detention under that statute. Signed by Magistrate Judge Patricia L. Dodge on 9/29/25. Text-only entry; no PDF document will issue. This text-only entry constitutes the Order of the Court or Notice on the matter. (jpe) (Entered: 09/29/2025)

Sept. 29, 2025

Sept. 29, 2025

Order

Sept. 29, 2025

Sept. 29, 2025

54

REPLY to 52 Notice, 53 Order, filed by W.J.C.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Ex. 4, Transcript of Aug. 6 and 13, 2025 Merits Hearing in Immigration Court) (Alfredson, Peter) (Entered: 10/10/2025)

Oct. 10, 2025

Oct. 10, 2025

55

Report and Recommendation

Nov. 7, 2025

Nov. 7, 2025

Case Details

State / Territory:

Pennsylvania

Case Type(s):

Immigration and/or the Border

Special Collection(s):

Trump 1.0 & 2.0 Immigration Enforcement Order Challenges

Trump Administration 2.0: Challenges to the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: May 21, 2025

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

A Venezuelan national challenged his detention and removal from the U.S. under the Alien Enemies Act.

Plaintiff Type(s):

Private Plaintiff

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

United States (- United States (national) -), Federal

Defendant Type(s):

Jurisdiction-wide

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Habeas Corpus, 28 U.S.C. §§ 2241-2253; 2254; 2255

Constitutional Clause(s):

Due Process

Due Process: Procedural Due Process

Other Dockets:

Western District of Pennsylvania 3:25-cv-00153

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit 25-02332

Special Case Type(s):

Sealed or access restricted under F.R.C.P. 5.2

Available Documents:

Any published opinion

Injunctive (or Injunctive-like) Relief

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Relief Granted:

Preliminary injunction / Temp. restraining order

Source of Relief:

Litigation

Content of Injunction:

Preliminary relief granted

Removal/deportation barred

Issues

Immigration/Border:

Deportation - criteria

Deportation - procedure