The U.S. Justice Department is planning to drop a lawsuit against Southwest Key Programs, a company that houses thousands of unaccompanied migrant children. The lawsuit, initiated during the Biden administration, alleged that employees of Southwest Key had sexually abused children in their care.
The decision to drop the lawsuit follows an email from Lisa Blatt, a prominent Supreme Court litigator representing Southwest Key. Blatt argued that pursuing the case could hinder efforts to tighten immigration restrictions and potentially encourage illegal border crossings. She made this argument in an email to Justice Department officials, including Associate Deputy Attorney General Ketan Bhirud.
Government lawyers are expected to file a notice of dismissal in a Texas federal court. Southwest Key is the largest private provider of housing for migrant children without parents or guardians.
Former Justice Department officials have expressed concern that dismissing the case could politicize civil rights enforcement. Jonathan Smith, a former deputy assistant attorney general, noted that the case involves serious allegations of child abuse and should not be influenced by politics.
Lisa Blatt is known for her success in the Supreme Court, having argued 53 cases with an 89% win rate. Her clients have included major companies like Google and Starbucks.
The Justice Department initially alleged that Southwest Key employees had abused children aged 5 to 17 over an eight-year period. The company denies these allegations and has asked a judge to dismiss the case. At least two former employees have been convicted of similar crimes.
Southwest Key receives significant funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The company operates 29 shelters across Texas, Arizona, and California, with a capacity for 6,350 children.
Former Justice Department officials worry that dropping the case sends a troubling message, suggesting that abusers might not face consequences. This decision could deter future enforcement actions against similar misconduct.
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