Case: D.A. v. Noem

1:25-cv-03135 | U.S. District Court for the District of District of Columbia

Filed Date: Sept. 11, 2025

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding in progress

Case Summary

On September 12, 2025, five non-citizens represented by Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The plaintiffs, nationals of Nigeria and The Gambia, had all been granted either withholding of removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) or deferral of removal under the Convention Again…

On September 12, 2025, five non-citizens represented by Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The plaintiffs, nationals of Nigeria and The Gambia, had all been granted either withholding of removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) or deferral of removal under the Convention Against Torture (CAT). Despite these protections, they were secretly deported from ICE custody in Louisiana to Ghana and confined at Dema Camp, an open-air facility with poor conditions and armed guards. One plaintiff has already been transferred onward to The Gambia, where he is in hiding, and the others face imminent deportation. Plaintiffs seek injunctive relief to halt onward removals and to compel their return to the United States.

The complaint alleges multiple statutory and constitutional violations. Plaintiffs contend that the deportations were arbitrary, capricious, and contrary to law under the Administrative Procedure Act; deprived them of notice and an opportunity to be heard in violation of the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause; and warrant declaratory relief under 28 U.S.C. § 2201. They also claim direct violations of INA § 1231(b)(3), which prohibits removal of individuals granted withholding, and of CAT regulations (8 C.F.R. § 1208.18), which bar removal of individuals granted deferral to places where they risk torture. Finally, plaintiffs allege the government unlawfully relied on a secret “Ghana Agreement,” in violation of FOIA’s publication requirements, to effectuate their deportations and circumvent judicially ordered protections.

Plaintiffs moved for an Emergency Ex Parte Temporary Restraining Order on September 12, 2025, seeking to halt onward removals from Ghana and compel their return to U.S. custody. They argue they are likely to prevail on their claims, face imminent irreparable harm, and that both equity and the public interest favor relief.

On September 15, 2025, Judge Tanya S. Chutkan denied the Plaintiff's motion for a Emergency Ex Parte Temporary Restraining Order, holding that the court lacked jurisdiction to compel Ghana’s actions under an unwritten diplomatic arrangement. While calling the removals alarming and part of a broader pattern of evasion, she concluded her “hands are tied” without a firmer jurisdictional basis.

This case is ongoing.

Summary Authors

Michael Vandergriff (9/16/2025)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71323714/parties/da-v-noem/


Judge(s)

Chutkan, Tanya Sue (District of Columbia)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Baron, Noah (District of Columbia)

Gelernt, Lee (District of Columbia)

Hamilton, Samantha Chariz (District of Columbia)

Huddleston, Kathryn (District of Columbia)

Attorney for Defendant

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document
1

1:25-cv-03135

Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief

D.A. et al. v. Noem et al.

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

Complaint
41

1:25-cv-03135

Memorandum Opinion and Order

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

Order/Opinion
41

1:25-cv-03135

Memorandum Opinion and Order

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

Order/Opinion

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71323714/da-v-noem/

Last updated Oct. 19, 2025, 1:23 p.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT for Injunctive and Declaratory Relief against All Defendants ( Filing fee $ 405 receipt number ADCDC-11952158) filed by T.L., I.O., K.S., D.S., D.A.. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Declaration of K.S., # 2 Civil Cover Sheet, # 3 Supplement Addendum to Civil Cover Sheet, # 4 Summons Bondi Summons, # 5 Summons Lyons Summons, # 6 Summons Noem Summons, # 7 Summons Rubio Summons)(Baron, Noah) (Attachment 2 replaced on 9/12/2025) (zmtm). (Entered: 09/12/2025)

1 Declaration Declaration of K.S.

View on PACER

2 Civil Cover Sheet

View on PACER

3 Supplement Addendum to Civil Cover Sheet

View on PACER

4 Summons Bondi Summons

View on PACER

5 Summons Lyons Summons

View on PACER

6 Summons Noem Summons

View on PACER

7 Summons Rubio Summons

View on PACER

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

Clearinghouse
10

SUMMONS (5) Issued Electronically as to PAMELA BONDI, TODD M. LYONS, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO, U.S. Attorney, and U.S. Attorney General. (Attachments: # 1 Notice and Consent) (zjd) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
11

NOTICE to the Court Regarding Attempted Service Related to Emergency Motion for Temporary Restraining Order (Second) by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

1 Exhibit A

View on PACER

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

RECAP
12

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Alexandra Smolyar, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11953157. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit of Alexandra Smolyar, # 2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
13

NOTICE of Appearance- Pro Bono by Patrick Taurel on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Taurel, Patrick) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
14

NOTICE of Appearance by Samantha Chariz Hamilton on behalf of D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S. (Hamilton, Samantha) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
15

NOTICE of Appearance- Pro Bono by Meredyth Yoon on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Yoon, Meredyth) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
16

NOTICE of Appearance by Mary Larakers on behalf of All Defendants (Larakers, Mary) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
17

Joint STATUS REPORT Regarding Meet and Confer Efforts by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

RECAP
18

MOTION Emergency Interim Relief re 17 Status Report by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Hamilton, Samantha) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

RECAP
2

Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief by D.A., D.S., I.O.. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Affidavit)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

1 Memorandum in Support

View on RECAP

2 Text of Proposed Order

View on PACER

3 Affidavit

View on RECAP

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

RECAP
3

MOTION to Proceed Pseudonymously by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S.. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
4

NOTICE to the Court Regarding Attempted Service Related to Emergency Motion for Temporary Restraining Order by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Exhibit A)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

1 Exhibit Exhibit A

View on PACER

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

RECAP
5

CIVIL COVER SHEET by T.L., I.O., K.S., D.S., D.A. filed by T.L., I.O., K.S., D.S., D.A.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Addendum to Civil Cover Sheet)(Baron, Noah) (Main Document 5 replaced on 9/12/2025 to remove fillable form) (zjd). (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
6

REQUEST FOR SUMMONS TO ISSUE to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi filed by T.L., I.O., K.S., D.S., D.A..(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
7

REQUEST FOR SUMMONS TO ISSUE to U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro filed by T.L., I.O., K.S., D.S., D.A..(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
8

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Meredyth Yoon, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11952686. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration Declaration of Meredyth Yoon, # 2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
9

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Samantha Hamilton, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11952743. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Samanthan Hamilton, # 2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Notice of Error- New Case

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Case Assigned/Reassigned

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief AND Set/Reset Deadlines

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

.Order

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Notice of Hearing on Motion

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Motion Hearing AND ~Util - Set/Reset Deadlines

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

NOTICE OF NEW CASE ERROR The following error(s) need correction: Incorrect civil cover sheet. Please locate the Civil Cover Sheet (JS44) form at www.dcd.uscourts.gov/new-case-forms & file using the event Civil Cover Sheet. Missing summonses- U.S. government. When naming a U.S. government agent or agency as a defendant, you must supply a summons for each defendant & two additional summonses for the U.S. Attorney & U.S. Attorney General. Please submit using the event Request for Summons to Issue. No signature - Civil Cover Sheet. Please file the signed document using the event Errata. All filings must have an original signature or /s/ Attorney Name to represent an electronic signature of the filer. COMPLIANCE DEADLINE is by close of business today. This case will not proceed any further until all errors are satisfied. (zmtm)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Motion Hearing

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Order

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Court has reviewed Plaintiffs' 3 Motion to Proceed Under Pseudonym. Given the imminent nature of this matter, it determines that a full Opinion is not practical at this time. Believing that Plaintiffs have made the required showing on the relevant factors, the Court ORDERS that: 1) The 3 Motion is GRANTED, subject to any further consideration by the United States District Judge to whom this case is randomly assigned; 2) All parties shall use the pseudonyms listed in the Complaint in all documents filed in this action; and 3) Within fourteen days of this Order, Plaintiffs shall file a sealed declaration containing their real names and residential addresses. So ORDERED by Chief Judge James E. Boasberg on September 12, 2025. (lcjeb4)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Case Assigned to Judge Tanya S. Chutkan. (zjd)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: GRANTING Motions for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice as to 8 Meredyth Yoon, 9 Samantha Hamilton, and 12 Alexandra Smolyar. Meredyth Yoon, Samantha Hamilton, and Alexandra Smolyar are hereby admitted pro hac vice to represent Plaintiffs in this matter. Counsel should register for e-filing via PACER and file a notice of appearance pursuant to LCvR 83.6(a) Click for instructions. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/12/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

NOTICE of Hearing on Motion 2 Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief : Motion Hearing set for 9/12/2025 at 2:00 PM in Courtroom 9- In Person before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan. (zcll)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The court will provide access for the public to telephonically attend the hearing scheduled for September 12th, 2025 at 2:00PM. The hearing can be accessed by dialing the Toll-Free Number: 833-990-9400 (Meeting ID: 493633106). It is hereby ORDERED that the attendees using the public access telephone line shall adhere to the following: persons remotely accessing court proceedings are reminded of the general prohibition against photographing, recording, and rebroadcasting any court proceedings (including those held by telephone or videoconference). Violation of these prohibitions may result in sanctions, including removal of court-issued media credentials, restricted entry to future hearings, denial of entry to future hearings, or any other sanctions deemed necessary by the presiding Judge. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/12/2025. (zcll) Modified on 9/12/2025 to update date/time (zcll).

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan: Motion Hearing held on 9/12/2025 re 2 Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief filed by I.O., D.A., D.S. Oral arguments heard. Plaintiffs Supplemental Briefing due by 9/13/2025. Governments response to ECF 2 due by COB 9/15/2025. (Court Reporter Bryan Wayne.) (zcll)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Given Plaintiffs' representation to the court via email after today's hearing, that Plaintiffs face removal from Ghana tomorrow morning, it is hereby ORDERED that the parties shall meet and confer tonight, 9/12/2025, and determine whether the parties can come to an agreement to maintain the status quo, or maintain Plaintiffs in their current location, given the pending 2 Motion for Temporary Restraining Order and briefing deadlines that the parties proposed at today's hearing (Plaintiffs' Supplemental Briefing due by tomorrow 9/13/25; Defendants' Reply due by Monday 9/15/25 close of business). The parties shall file a joint status report on the docket by tonight 8:30 P.M. EST detailing the parties' agreements, if any. Should the parties fail to come to an agreement, the court is inclined to set another hearing as early as tomorrow morning, Saturday, 9/13/2025. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/12/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 12, 2025

Sept. 12, 2025

PACER
19

NOTICE of Appearance by Lee Gelernt on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Gelernt, Lee) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

RECAP
20

NOTICE of Appearance by My Khanh Ngo on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Ngo, My Khanh) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER
21

DECLARATION by D.A.. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Plaintiff D.A.)(Hamilton, Samantha) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

1 Declaration of Plaintiff D.A.

View on RECAP

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

RECAP
22

NOTICE of Appearance by Matthew Patrick Seamon on behalf of All Defendants (Seamon, Matthew) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER
23

TRANSCRIPT OF MOTION HEARING before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan held on September 12, 2025; Page Numbers: 1-29. Date of Issuance: 9/13/2025. Court Reporter: Bryan A. Wayne, (202) 354-3186. Transcripts may be ordered by submitting the Transcript Order FormFor the first 90 days after this filing date, the transcript may be viewed at the courthouse at a public terminal or purchased from the court reporter referenced above. After 90 days, the transcript may be accessed via PACER. Other transcript formats, (multi-page, condensed, CD or ASCII) may be purchased from the court reporter.NOTICE RE REDACTION OF TRANSCRIPTS: The parties have twenty-one days to file with the court and the court reporter any request to redact personal identifiers from this transcript. If no such requests are filed, the transcript will be made available to the public via PACER without redaction after 90 days. The policy, which includes the five personal identifiers specifically covered, is located on our website at www.dcd.uscourts.gov. Redaction Request due 10/4/2025. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 10/14/2025. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 12/12/2025.(Wayne, Bryan) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER
24

NOTICE of Appearance by Elianis N. Perez on behalf of All Defendants (Perez, Elianis) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER
25

NOTICE OF SUPPLEMENTAL AUTHORITY by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Hamilton, Samantha) (Entered: 09/13/2025)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

RECAP

.Order

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

Notice of Hearing on Motion

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

.Order AND ~Util - Set/Reset Deadlines

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

Motion Hearing

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

Order

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

NOTICE of Hearing on Motion 18 MOTION Emergency Interim Relief re 17 Status Report, 2 Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief : Motion Hearing set for 9/13/2025 at 3:00 PM by Telephonic/VTC before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan. (zcll)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The court will provide access for the public to telephonically attend the hearing scheduled for September 13th, 2025 at 3:00PM. The hearing can be accessed by dialing the Toll-Free Number: 833-990-9400 (Meeting ID: 493633106). It is hereby ORDERED that the attendees using the public access telephone line shall adhere to the following: persons remotely accessing court proceedings are reminded of the general prohibition against photographing, recording, and rebroadcasting any court proceedings (including those held by telephone or videoconference). Violation of these prohibitions may result in sanctions, including removal of court-issued media credentials, restricted entry to future hearings, denial of entry to future hearings, or any other sanctions deemed necessary by the presiding Judge. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/13/2025. (zcll)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan: Motion Hearing held on 9/13/2025 re 18 MOTION Emergency Interim Relief & 2 Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief filed by I.O., D.A., D.S. The Court hears Oral Argument and takes the matter under advisement. Order forthcoming. (Court Reporter Christine Asif.) (zcll)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Given the representations made at the September 12, and September 13, 2025, hearings, it is hereby ORDERED that Defendants shall file a declaration by today, September 13, 2025, at 9:00PM EST, setting forth the government's efforts, in light of Ghana's transfer of at least one Plaintiff to his home country, to keep Plaintiffs from being removed to their countries of origin or other countries where they fear persecution or torture. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/13/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: In light of the representations made at today's hearing and the Government's 9:00 P.M. deadline, see Sept. 13, 2025 Min. Order, it is hereby ORDERED that, to the extent the parties wish to submit further briefing on 2 Motion for TRO, Plaintiffs shall file Supplemental Briefing, if any, by Sunday, 9/14/2025, at 12:00 P.M. The Government shall file a Response, if any, by Sunday, 9/14/2025, at 3:00 P.M. EST. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/13/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 13, 2025

Sept. 13, 2025

PACER
26

MOTION Provision of Court-Ordered Declaration to Plaintiffs by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

1 Exhibit A

View on RECAP

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
27

Second MOTION for Provision of Court-Ordered Declaration and for Extension of Time for Supplemental Briefing re 26 MOTION Provision of Court-Ordered Declaration to Plaintiffs by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
28

RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE re Order,, filed by PAMELA BONDI, TODD M. LYONS, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO. (Larakers, Mary) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
29

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Gianna Borroto, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11955422. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S.. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration, # 2 Certificate of Good Standing)(Taurel, Patrick) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER
30

PROTECTIVE ORDER: setting forth procedures for handling Government's Declaration. See Order for details. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/14/2025. (lcer) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
31

SEALED MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENT UNDER SEAL filed by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (This document is SEALED and only available to authorized persons.) (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Plaintiffs' Request for Emergency Relief, # 2 Exhibit A - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals, # 3 Exhibit B - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals, # 4 Exhibit C - Transcript - Motion Hearing on September 12, 2025)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER
32

MEMORANDUM by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals, # 2 Exhibit B - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals, # 3 Exhibit C - Transcript - Motion Hearing on September 12, 2025)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

1 Exhibit A - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals

View on RECAP

2 Exhibit B - Memorandum - Guidance Regarding Third Country Removals

View on RECAP

3 Exhibit C - Transcript - Motion Hearing on September 12, 2025

View on RECAP

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
33

Memorandum in opposition to re 18 MOTION Emergency Interim Relief re 17 Status Report, 2 Ex Parte MOTION for Temporary Restraining Order for Emergency Relief filed by PAMELA BONDI, TODD M. LYONS, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1)(Larakers, Mary) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

1 Exhibit 1

View on RECAP

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP
34

REPLY to opposition to motion re 18 Motion for Miscellaneous Relief, 31 Sealed Motion for Leave to File Document Under Seal, 2 Motion for TRO filed by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/14/2025)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

RECAP

.Order

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief AND Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

Order

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of Plaintiffs' 26 & 27 Motions, and given the representations made therein, it is hereby ORDERED that Defendants shall show cause by today, 9/14/2025, 1:30PM EST as to why a protective order prohibiting Plaintiffs' counsel from releasing or sharing the submitted information, including to the public or any foreign government or court, is insufficient to safeguard its interests and how its filing satisfies the stringent requirements for ex parte submissions. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/14/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Given the Government's 28 Response to Order to Show Cause, it is hereby ORDERED that the parties shall submit a draft stipulated protective order by 3:30 P.M today. It is further ORDERED that the Supplemental Briefing deadlines are hereby stayed pending further order of this court. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/14/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: GRANTING Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice as to 29 Gianna Borroto. Gianna Borroto is hereby admitted pro hac vice to represent Plaintiffs in this matter. Counsel should register for e-filing via PACER and file a notice of appearance pursuant to LCvR 83.6(a) Click for instructions. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/14/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Given the 30 Stipulated Protective Order, Plaintiffs' Motions 26 and 27 are hereby DENIED as MOOT. Pursuant to the parties' agreement, the court resets the deadlines for supplemental briefing on 2 TRO Motion: Plaintiffs shall file their supplemental brief tonight by 6:30 P.M. EST. The Government shall file its Response tonight by 8:30 P.M. EST. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/14/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 14, 2025

Sept. 14, 2025

PACER
35

NOTICE of Appearance by Alexandra Michele Smolyar on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Smolyar, Alexandra) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
36

NOTICE to the Court of Status of Plaintiffs by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - Declaration of Wife of D.A.)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

1 Exhibit A - Declaration of Wife of D.A.

View on RECAP

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
37

MOTION to Compel Provision of Memorandum of Understanding Between United States of American and Ghana by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
38

NOTICE to the Court Regarding Status of Plaintiffs (Second) by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
39

NOTICE to the Court Regarding Status of Plaintiffs (Third) by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
40

Emergency MOTION to Unseal Document (Declaration of Jonathan G. Pratt) and File on Public Docket by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

1 Text of Proposed Order

View on PACER

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

RECAP
41

MEMORANDUM OPINION & ORDER: DENYING Plaintiffs' 2 Motion for Temporary Restraining Order and DENYING Plaintiffs' 18 Motion Emergency Interim Relief. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/15/2025. (lcer) (Entered: 09/15/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

Clearinghouse
48

SEALED Memorandum filed by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (This document is SEALED and only available to authorized persons.) (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A, # 2 Exhibit B, # 3 Exhibit C)(zjm) (Entered: 09/19/2025)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

PACER

Order on Sealed Motion for Leave to File Document Under Seal

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of Plaintiffs' 31 Consent Motion for Leave to File Under Seal, the court GRANTS the motion for the reasons asserted. The Clerk of the Court shall file 30 under seal. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/15/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of Plaintiffs' 31 Consent Motion for Leave to File Under Seal, the court GRANTS the motion for the reasons asserted. The Clerk of the Court shall file 31 under seal. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/15/2025. (lcer) Modified on 9/16/2025 to link correct ECF (zcll).

Sept. 15, 2025

Sept. 15, 2025

PACER
42

TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS before Judge Tanya S. Chutkan held on 9/13/2025; Page Numbers: 1-44. Date of Issuance:9/16/2025. Court Reporter Christine T. Asif, Telephone number 202-354-3247, Transcripts may be ordered by submitting the Transcript Order FormFor the first 90 days after this filing date, the transcript may be viewed at the courthouse at a public terminal or purchased from the court reporter referenced above. After 90 days, the transcript may be accessed via PACER. Other transcript formats, (multi-page, condensed, CD or ASCII) may be purchased from the court reporter.NOTICE RE REDACTION OF TRANSCRIPTS: The parties have twenty-one days to file with the court and the court reporter any request to redact personal identifiers from this transcript. If no such requests are filed, the transcript will be made available to the public via PACER without redaction after 90 days. The policy, which includes the five personal identifiers specifically covered, is located on our website at www.dcd.uscourts.gov. Redaction Request due 10/7/2025. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 10/17/2025. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 12/15/2025.(Asif, Christine) (Entered: 09/16/2025)

Sept. 16, 2025

Sept. 16, 2025

PACER

.Order AND ~Util - Set/Reset Deadlines

Sept. 16, 2025

Sept. 16, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of Plaintiffs' 40 Emergency Motion to Unseal Document, the court construes Plaintiffs' 40 Motion as a Motion to Dissolve Protective Order and unseal the declaration. It is hereby ORDERED that, to the extent Defendants contest the motion, Defendants shall show cause by 9/17/2025 as to why the court should not grant the 40 Motion for the reasons stated in the motion. Signed by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan on 9/16/2025. (lcer)

Sept. 16, 2025

Sept. 16, 2025

PACER
43

NOTICE of Appearance- Pro Bono by Judy Rabinovitz on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Rabinovitz, Judy) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

PACER
44

NOTICE of Appearance- Pro Bono by Kathryn Huddleston on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Huddleston, Kathryn) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

PACER
45

NOTICE of Appearance- Pro Bono by Omar C. Jadwat on behalf of All Plaintiffs (Jadwat, Omar) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

PACER
46

RESPONSE re 40 Emergency MOTION to Unseal Document (Declaration of Jonathan G. Pratt) and File on Public Docket filed by PAMELA BONDI, TODD M. LYONS, KRISTI NOEM, MARCO RUBIO. (Larakers, Mary) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

RECAP
47

REPLY to opposition to motion re 40 Motion to Unseal Document and Dissolve Protective Order filed by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L.. (Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

RECAP
49

SEALED DOCUMENT filed by D.A., D.S., I.O., K.S., T.L. re Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief,,,, Set/Reset Deadlines,,, (This document is SEALED and only available to authorized persons.)(Baron, Noah) (Entered: 09/26/2025)

Sept. 26, 2025

Sept. 26, 2025

PACER

Case Details

State / Territory: District of Columbia

Case Type(s):

Immigration and/or the Border

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Challenges to the Government

Trump Administration 2.0: Litigation and Investigations Involving the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: Sept. 11, 2025

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Attorney Organizations:

Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC

Defendants

Attorney General Pamela Bondi, Federal

Secretary Marco Rubio, Federal

Secretary Kristi Noem, Federal

Todd Lyons, Acting Director, Federal

Defendant Type(s):

Law-enforcement

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. §§ 551 et seq.

Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), 8 U.S.C. §§ 1101 et seq.

FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), 5 U.S.C. § 552

Constitutional Clause(s):

Due Process

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Issues

Immigration/Border:

Convention against Torture

Deportation - procedure