In a landmark decision, a federal judge has ruled in favor of using a rarely invoked wartime law to deport certain Venezuelan nationals suspected of gang involvement in the United States.

Judge Stephanie Haines, based in Pennsylvania, upheld a presidential order issued in March that labeled Tren de Aragua — a violent gang originating from Venezuela — as part of an organized incursion into the U.S. The ruling marks the first time a federal court has supported the application of the Alien Enemies Act (AEA) in such a case.

The decision allows federal authorities to proceed with deportations of individuals who meet specific criteria: they must be Venezuelan citizens aged 14 or older, lack legal immigration status, and be identified as members of Tren de Aragua.

Judge Haines emphasized that her ruling does not determine whether the president can apply the law to other immigration cases or to individuals with no confirmed gang ties. However, she did require that the government improve its notification process. Individuals subject to removal under this order must now receive at least 21 days’ notice, in both English and Spanish, along with a chance to respond to the allegations.

“This case presents complex legal questions closely tied to the structure of American government,” Haines wrote. “The Court limits its decision strictly to the facts and laws directly at issue here.”

The ruling comes amid reports of mass removals of suspected gang members to facilities in El Salvador, as well as increased legal challenges in various states. One such case involved a Venezuelan man who fled to the U.S. in 2023 with his family, claiming he was being extorted in his home country. He was arrested after a neighbor accused him of gang affiliation — an allegation he denies.

Initially, Haines granted class action status, halting deportations within her district. However, she has since lifted that order, provided that all removals follow the newly established notice requirements.

Another case out of Texas involves a woman who also fled Venezuela in 2023, citing political harassment. Though she received temporary protection status in the U.S., she was later arrested on accusations of gang involvement — which she contests. Her legal team is asking the court to block her deportation while her asylum claim is pending.

The use of the Alien Enemies Act in these cases has sparked significant debate about due process and the legal standards used to identify gang members. While the ruling does not set a national precedent, it may influence how similar cases are handled in other jurisdictions.