From ABC News · ABC News · · 1m 20s
Court blocks swift deportations to third countries
A federal appeals court ruled immigrants must get notice before being deported to nations where they have no ties.
In brief
A federal appeals court ruled immigrants must get notice before being deported to nations where they have no ties. Immigrants facing deportation now have the right to contest being sent to third countries and must receive advance notice of their destination. Originally reported by ABC News.
Court blocks swift third-country deportations
A federal appeals court unanimously ruled that immigrants facing deportation to third countries must receive advance notice and a chance to contest the decision.
Immigrants deported with no warning
Latin American men were flown to the Central African Republic and not told their destination until hours into the flight, with no opportunity to challenge the removal.
“"I feel kidnapped," one of the men, Aristides Fernandez Garcia, said.”
Policy allowed deportations based on assurances
The Department of Homeland Security cited diplomatic assurances from receiving nations that they would not mistreat deportees, allowing swift transfers without notice.
Administration expanded third-country deals
The administration secured formal agreements with 35 countries including Liberia, Ghana, the Central African Republic and Sierra Leone, spending nearly 50 million dollars on these deportation programs.
Rights group condemns dangerous destinations
Human Rights First argues the U.S. is sending refugees to countries run by corrupt autocrats where they face arbitrary detention and torture, violating due process and international law.
The short version
Immigrants facing deportation now have the right to contest being sent to third countries and must receive advance notice of their destination.
