Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba has taken a hardline stance against New Jersey officials obstructing federal immigration enforcement, declaring “FULL STOP” to policies shielding illegal immigrants from deportation. Her actions follow a Supreme Court ruling that temporarily halted deportations of Venezuelan migrants linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal group but required basic due process protections.
Habba launched a federal investigation into Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin after internal memos revealed New Jersey State Police were ordered to ignore 27,000 federal immigration warrants. The directive violated the 2018 Immigrant Trust Directive by prohibiting troopers from contacting ICE about administrative warrants lacking judicial approval. Murphy previously admitted housing an undocumented immigrant at his home, daring ICE to “knock on his door”.
Habba emphasized state officials “will be charged for obstruction” if they interfere with ICE operations, calling such actions “a threat to American safety.” She argued the Supreme Court’s requirement for habeas corpus filings in detainees’ jurisdictions creates logistical hurdles but doesn’t override federal supremacy. The Court’s 5-4 decision allowed continued deportations to El Salvador’s CECOT prison but mandated notice and court access for detainees.
The Trump administration has shifted from Guantánamo Bay to using El Salvador’s mega-prison for migrant detention, citing efficiency. Over 260 migrants were rapidly deported under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act before courts intervened. Habba criticized DC District Judge James Boasberg’s extended restraining order on deportations as “political obstruction,” pledging to prioritize removing criminals like Laken Riley’s accused murderer.
Habba’s actions reflect the administration’s focus on tightening immigration enforcement despite state resistance, with over 80% public approval cited for deportation efforts. Legal battles continue over balancing due process with executive authority to address border challenges.
