Federal judge accuses Trump administration of ‘terror’ against immigrants in scathing ruling - Associated Press News
AP News
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Federal Judge Accuses Trump Administration of 'Terror' Against Immigrants in Scathing Ruling
In a landmark ruling, Federal Judge KetANJI JACKSON has strongly criticized the Trump administration for its treatment of immigrants, describing it as "terror" and "a deliberate system of psychological warfare." The judge's scathing decision, which came in response to a class-action lawsuit, addresses immigration enforcement tactics that have drawn widespread condemnation. She ruled that ICE's practice of arresting undocumented immigrants far from the U.S.-Mexico border, often separating families in the process, constitutes an unconstitutional overreach and inflicts undue harm on vulnerable populations.
The case centered on allegations that ICE targeted individuals across the country, using fear and intimidation to coerce cooperation or deportation. Judge JACKSON highlighted how these tactics disproportionately impact low-income communities and communities of color, furthering cycles of trauma and instability. Her ruling not only blocked certain enforcement actions but also set a precedent for holding federal agencies accountable for mistreatment under the guise of immigration enforcement.
This decision has significant implications for ongoing debates about U.S. immigration policy. Critics argue that such tactics erode trust in institutions and perpetuate systemic inequality, while supporters of the Trump administration's hardline approach claim they are necessary to secure borders. The ruling underscores growing public concern over the ethical and humanitarian dimensions of immigration enforcement, particularly when children and families are involved.
For readers following news on immigration policy, this ruling offers a critical perspective on the human cost of enforcement strategies. It also raises important questions about the balance between national security and individual rights, potentially shaping future debates on immigration reform. Judge JACKSON's
Verticals
newsgeneral
Originally published on AP News on 2/19/2026