The March 14 directive, signed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, uses an obscure 18th-century law — the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 — to give law enforcement nationwide the power to bypass basic constitutional protections.

According to the memo, agents can break into a home if getting a warrant is “impracticable,” and they don’t need a judge’s approval. Instead, immigration officers can sign their own administrative warrants. The bar for action is low — a “reasonable belief” that someone might be part of a Venezuelan gang is enough.

  • orcrist@lemm.ee
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    15 hours ago

    We have precedent on this exact issue, actually. Down in Florida 5-10 years ago. Sometimes the courts do as you say. Not all the time, though. Details matter.

    • barneypiccolo@lemm.ee
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      4 hours ago

      A lot depends on your race. Things like Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine tend to go better for white folks.