District of Connecticut • 3:25-cv-02170

#1

Dec 30, 2025

PETITION for Writ of Habeas Corpus ( Filing fee $ 5 receipt number ACTDC-8448369.), filed by M.S..(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#2

Dec 30, 2025

NOTICE of Related Case by M.S. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#3

Dec 30, 2025

First MOTION to Seal Exhibits A-L to Habeas Petition by M.S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#4

Dec 30, 2025

Memorandum in Support re 3 First MOTION to Seal Exhibits A-L to Habeas Petition filed by M.S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#5

Dec 30, 2025

MOTION for Emergency Motion for Expedited Status Conference Conference by M.S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#6

Dec 30, 2025

ELECTRONIC FILING ORDER FOR COUNSEL - PLEASE ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH COURTESY COPY REQUIREMENTS IN THIS ORDER Signed by Judge Stefan R. Underhill on 12/30/2025. (Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#7

Dec 30, 2025

Standing Protective Order Signed by Judge Stefan R. Underhill on 12/30/2025. (Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#8

Dec 30, 2025

Notice to Counsel and Litigants Regarding AI-Assisted Research: Attorneys and pro se litigants alike should exercise great caution in submitting any AI-generated language in filings before the Court. Use of AI without verification of the accuracy of the information it generates like any other shoddy research method from other sources or tools implicates Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 11, the central purpose of which is to deter baseless filings in district court and thus to streamline the administration and procedure of the federal courts. Rule 11 applies fully to actions filed by pro se litigants.Therefore, all parties are on notice that the Court has a no-tolerance policy for any briefing (AI-assisted or not) that hallucinates legal propositions or otherwise severely misstates the law. Such filings will often result in sanctions absent reasonable excuse. See generally Willis v. U.S. Bank Nat'l Ass'n et al, No. 3:25-CV-516-BN, 2025 WL 1408897 (N.D. Tex. May 15, 2025). Signed by Clerk on 12/30/2025.(Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#9

Dec 30, 2025

Notice of Option to Consent to Magistrate Judge Jurisdiction.(Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#10

Dec 30, 2025

NOTICE TO COUNSEL/SELF-REPRESENTED PARTIES: Counsel or self-represented parties initiating or removing this action are responsible for serving all parties with attached documents and copies of 1 Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus filed by M. S., 2 Notice of Related Case filed by M. S., 3 First MOTION to Seal Exhibits A-L to Habeas Petition filed by M. S., 4 Memorandum in Support of Motion filed by M. S., 5 MOTION for Emergency Motion for Expedited Status Conference Conference filed by M. S., 6 Electronic Filing Order, 7 Standing Protective Order, 8 Notice re: AI-Assisted Research, and 9 Notice of Option to Consent to Magistrate Judge Jurisdiction. Signed by Clerk on 12/30/2025. (Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#11

Dec 30, 2025

ORDER OF TRANSFER. Case reassigned to Judge Vernon D. Oliver for all further proceedings. Signed by Judge Stefan R. Underhill on 12/30/2025. (Reis, J) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#12

Dec 30, 2025

ORDER. The Court shall hold a telephonic status conference on December 31, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Dial-in information shall follow in a subsequent order. The Court notes that Petitioner filed an emergency motion for a status conference before filing a motion for a temporary restraining order or a motion for preliminary injunction. In the absence of either of those motions, the parties should come prepared to discuss next steps and an anticipated briefing schedule.In order to preserve the status quo and in the event of a hearing requiring Petitioner's presence, it is hereby ORDERED that M.S. shall not be moved outside the District of Connecticut, other than to an approved parent or sponsor, without first providing advance notice of the intended move. Such notice shall be filed in writing on the docket in this action, and it shall state the reason why the government believes that such a movement is necessary and should not be stayed pending further court proceedings. Ozturk v. Hyde, 136 F.4th 382, 394 (2d Cir. 2025) (explaining that a district court has an inherent authority to protect its proceedings). Additionally, Petitioner requests that the Court enjoin M.S.’s removal pending these proceedings. The Court is unable to grant that relief at this time as the removal proceedings would be handled by the Department of Homeland Security, which is not listed as a party to this case.No later than tomorrow, December 31, at 8:30 AM, Petitioner’s counsel is directed (1) to serve Respondents with a copy of the petition and accompanying papers, along with a copy of this Order, by e-mail to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut and by overnight mail, (2) to notify the United States Attorney’s Office of M.S.’s full name and A number, and (3) to promptly file proof of such service on the docket.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 12/30/2025. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 12/30/2025)

#13

Dec 30, 2025

STRICKEN: MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and TRO by M. S..Responses due by 1/20/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Motion for Temporary Restraining Order and for a Preliminary Injunction)(Strom, Steven) Modified on 12/31/2025 to Strike and Seal docket entry (Kelsey, N). (Entered: 12/30/2025)

Dec 30, 2025

Order of Transfer

Dec 30, 2025

Order on Motion for Conference

Dec 30, 2025

CASE ASSIGNMENT: District Judge Stefan R. Underhill assigned to the case. If the District Judge issues an Order of Referral to a Magistrate Judge for any matter other than settlement, the matter will be referred to Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson. (Freberg, B)

Dec 30, 2025

Notice re: AI-Assisted Research

Dec 30, 2025

NEW Case Assignment

#14

Dec 31, 2025

NOTICE OF E-FILED CALENDAR: THIS IS THE ONLY NOTICE COUNSEL/THE PARTIES WILL RECEIVE. Telephonic Status Conference set for 12/31/2025 at 01:00 PM before Judge Vernon D. Oliver. Dial in information: +1-203-684-6202. Phone conference ID: 801 039 032# (Kelsey, N) (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#15

Dec 31, 2025

AFFIDAVIT of Service for ECF Doc. ## 1-13, 13-1 served on USAO, 157 Church St, NH; CCP 843 Whalley Ave., NH on December 31, 2025, filed by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#16

Dec 31, 2025

ORDER striking 13 Motion for Preliminary Injunction. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(f) authorizes the Court, whether on motion by party or on its own, to strike from a pleading an insufficient defense or any redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter. And pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2(a), [u]nless the court orders otherwise, in an electronic or paper filing with the court that contains... the name of an individual known to be a minor... may only include the minors initials.The memorandum attached to Petitioners motion for preliminary injunction contains irrelevant comment bubbles related to the editorial process. Many of the comment bubbles contain Petitioners first name and information that could be used to identify him. Accordingly, the Court strikes the 13 Motion for Preliminary Injunction. By 4:00 p.m. today, December 31, 2025, Petitioner shall file a redacted version of the Motion for Preliminary Injunction that eliminates the errant comment bubbles. The redacted version must comply with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2(a) and Local Rule 5(e).Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 12/31/2025. (Frostbutter, S) Modified on 12/31/2025 to correct cite (Kelsey, N). (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#17

Dec 31, 2025

NOTICE by M. S. re 12 Order on Motion for Conference,,,,,,,, Notice of Compliance with Order ECF Doc. #12 (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#18

Dec 31, 2025

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO by M. S..Responses due by 1/21/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Motion for Temporary Restraining Order and for Preliminary Injunction)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#19

Dec 31, 2025

ORDER. For the reasons stated on the record at the status conference held on December 31, 2025, the Court grants 3 Motion to Seal. By January 2, 2026, Petitioner is directed to “e-file as public documents redacted copies of any documents required by the Court’s sealing order, and shall e-file as sealed documents, unredacted copies of any motions or documents ordered sealed but not previously e-filed.” See D. Conn L. R. 5(e)(4)(b). For future filings, counsel is directed to following the sealed document e-filing procedure outlined in Local Rule 5(e)(4)(a), and submit the documents sought to be sealed along with the motion to seal.Further, the Court enters the following briefing schedule on Petitioner’s Motion for Preliminary Injunction/Temporary Restraining Order (ECF No. 18) (the “Motion”). Respondents wishing to oppose the Motion are directed to file their opposition on or before January 21, 2026. Petitioner may file a reply on or before January 30, 2026. The Court will hold a hearing on the Motion on February 5, 2026, at 2 PM. A separate scheduling order will follow. The parties shall file a joint status report by January 10, 2026, appraising the Court of whether they intend to present evidence at the Motion hearing.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 12/31/2025. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 12/31/2025)

#22

Dec 31, 2025

NOTICE OF E-FILED CALENDAR re: 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO. THIS IS THE ONLY NOTICE COUNSEL/THE PARTIES WILL RECEIVE. ALL PERSONS ENTERING THE COURTHOUSE MUST PRESENT PHOTO IDENTIFICATION. Motion Hearing set for 2/5/2026 at 02:00 PM in Courtroom Three, 450 Main St., Hartford, CT before Judge Vernon D. Oliver. Set Deadlines as to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO: Responses due by 1/21/2026; Joint Status Report due by 1/10/2026. (Kelsey, N) (Entered: 01/04/2026)

#23

Dec 31, 2025

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Vernon D. Oliver: Status Conference held on 12/31/2026. Total Time: 1 hours and 16 minutes (Court Reporter Corinne Thomas). (Frostbutter, S) Modified on 2/8/2026 to filed date of minutes (Kelsey, N). (Entered: 01/05/2026)

Dec 31, 2025

Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction

Dec 31, 2025

Order on Motion to Seal

Dec 31, 2025

Calendar Entry

#20

Jan 02, 2026

Sealed Document: Petitioner's Exhibits A-L in Support of Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus and in Support of Motion for TRO and for Preliminary Injunction by M. S. . (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit of Petitioner, # 2 Affidavit of Next Friend, C.S., # 3 Affidavit of Attorney Tess Reagan, # 4 Affidavit of Dr. Francisco Lopez, # 5 Exhibit Birth Certificate for M.S., # 6 Exhibit NTA and Notice of Rights, # 7 Exhibit Marriage Certificate D.S and C.S, # 8 Exhibit Verified Releases for NFS and DFS, # 9 Exhibit NLFFA Face Sheet for MS, # 10 Exhibit ORR Tracking and Transfer Sheet, # 11 Exhibit UAC Portal Printouts re: NFFLA and CCP, # 12 Exhibit Photo of M.S., Petitioner)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/02/2026)

#21

Jan 02, 2026

EXHIBIT Petitioner's Exhibits A-L filed in support of Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus and in support of Motion for TRO and for a Preliminary Injunction by M. S.. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit of Petitioner, # 2 Affidavit of Next Friend, C.S., # 3 Affidavit of Attorney Tess Reagan, # 4 Affidavit of Dr. Francisco Lopez, # 5 Exhibit Birth Certificate of M.S., # 6 Exhibit NTA and Notice of Rights, # 7 Exhibit Marriage Certificate of D.S. and C.S., # 8 Exhibit ORR Verified Releases for NFS and DFS, # 9 Exhibit NLFFA Face Sheet re: MS, # 10 Exhibit ORR Tracking and Transfer Sheet, # 11 Exhibit UAC Portal Printouts re: NLFFA and CCP, # 12 Exhibit)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/02/2026)

Jan 04, 2026

Calendar Entry - Motion Hearing AND Set Deadlines/Hearings AND Set Motion and Rcmd Ruling Deadlines/Hearings

Jan 05, 2026

Request for Clerk to issue summons as to Alex J. Adams, Randi Cavallaro, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Strom, Steven)

Jan 05, 2026

Request to Issue Summons

#24

Jan 06, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and LR 4 as to *Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar* with answer to complaint due within *60* days. Attorney *Steven R. Strom* *Strom Law LLC* *151 Livingston St.* *New Haven, CT 06511*. (Denault, S) (Entered: 01/06/2026)

#25

Jan 06, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and LR 4 as to *Randi Cavallaro* with answer to complaint due within *21* days. Attorney *Steven R. Strom* *Strom Law LLC* *151 Livingston St.* *New Haven, CT 06511*. (Denault, S) (Entered: 01/06/2026)

#26

Jan 08, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Jillian Rose Orticelli on behalf of Alex J. Adams, Randi Cavallaro, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/08/2026)

#27

Jan 08, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Sarah D'Addabbo Rocco on behalf of Alex J. Adams, Randi Cavallaro, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar (Rocco, Sarah) (Entered: 01/08/2026)

#28

Jan 08, 2026

Joint STATUS REPORT by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/08/2026)

#29

Jan 09, 2026

TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings: Type of Hearing: Status Conference. Held on 12/31/2025 before Judge Vernon D. Oliver. Court Reporter: Corinne Thomas. IMPORTANT NOTICE - REDACTION OF TRANSCRIPTS: To remove personal identifier information from the transcript, a party must electronically file a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction with the Clerk's Office within seven (7) calendar days of this date. If no such Notice is filed, the court will assume redaction of personal identifiers is not necessary and the transcript will be made available through PACER without redaction 90 days from today's date. The transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. The policy governing the redaction of personal information is located on the court website at www.ctd.uscourts.gov. Redaction Request due 1/30/2026. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 2/9/2026. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 4/9/2026. (Thomas, Corinne) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

#30

Jan 12, 2026

NOTICE by Randi Cavallaro re 26 Notice of Appearance entered in error (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

#31

Jan 12, 2026

NOTICE by Randi Cavallaro re 27 Notice of Appearance entered in error (Rocco, Sarah) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

#32

Jan 12, 2026

ORDER re: 28 Joint Status Report. In the joint status report, Petitioner indicates that he is seeking discovery in this matter and that he intends to present five witnesses at the February 5, 2026, hearing. Respondents claim they are not required to participate in discovery, and that witness testimony is inappropriate, because this Court’s jurisdiction arises under the Administrative Procedures Act.Accordingly, the parties are ordered to submit supplemental briefing on this matter. Petitioner shall file a supplemental brief of no more than five double-spaced pages by Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Specifically, the brief should address how Respondents’ argument impacts (1) the scope of discovery in this matter, and (2) the scope of the February 5, 2026, hearing. Respondent may file a response by Friday, January 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The response shall not exceed three double-spaced pages.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/12/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

Jan 12, 2026

Order

#33

Jan 13, 2026

MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY by M. S..Responses due by 2/3/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Motion For Expedited Discovery)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

#34

Jan 13, 2026

ORDER: The Court construes the Notices at ECF Nos. 30 and 31 as motions to withdraw. Those motions are granted. Accordingly, Attorneys Jillian Rose Orticelli and Sarah D'Addabbo Rocco are withdrawn as counsel for Respondent Randi Cavallaro. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/13/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

#35

Jan 13, 2026

ORDER: The parties shall immediately notify the Court if M.S. is released from ORR custody during the pendency of this matter. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/13/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

#36

Jan 13, 2026

ORDER: Respondents shall respond to Petitioner’s Motion for Expedited Discovery at ECF No. 33 by Friday, January 16, at 5:00 PM. This response deadline is separate from and in addition to the supplemental briefing deadline previously ordered by the Court at ECF No. 14 .Additionally, the Court will hold a telephonic status conference on Tuesday, January 20, at 2:00 PM. Dial-in information will follow in a separate order. The parties shall come prepared to discuss (1) the Motion for Expedited Discovery, and (2) the scope of evidence, if any, to be presented at the February 5, 2026, hearing. The parties shall also come prepared to apprise the Court of the status of any pending sponsorship applications of any adult seeking sponsorship of M.S., and the status of any related proceedings in Connecticut state court.Understanding the compressed filing deadlines in this matter, the Court is amendable to extending Respondent’s deadline to file their response to Petitioner’s Motion for Preliminary Injunction/Temporary Restraining Order.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/13/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

#37

Jan 13, 2026

ORDER: On or before January 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM, Attorneys Jillian Rose Orticelli and Sarah D'Addabbo Rocco are ORDERED to inform Respondent Randi Cavallaro telephonically or via email that they mistakenly entered an appearance on her behalf, and then promptly file proof of such notification on the docket.Additionally, by January 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM, Petitioner’s counsel is directed to serve Respondent Cavallaro via email and by overnight mail with (1) a copy of the petition and accompanying papers; (2) copies of all pending motions and exhibits; (3) a copy of this order. Petitioner’s counsel shall then promptly file proof of such service on the docket. Petitioner shall also notify Respondent Cavallaro of M.S.’s full name and A number. Further, given the mistaken appearance, the Court is amenable to extending Respondent Cavallaro’s current filing deadlines.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/13/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

#38

Jan 13, 2026

AFFIDAVIT of Service for ECF## 1, 18,18-1, 18, 18-1, 21-1 thru 21-12, 33, 33-1 served on Randi Cavallaro on January 7, 2026, filed by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

Jan 13, 2026

Order

Jan 13, 2026

Set Deadlines as to 33 MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY: Responses due by 1/16/2026 by 5:00 pm. (Kelsey, N)

#39

Jan 14, 2026

NOTICE OF E-FILED CALENDAR: THIS IS THE ONLY NOTICE COUNSEL/THE PARTIES WILL RECEIVE. Telephonic Status Conference set for 1/20/2026 at 02:00 PM before Judge Vernon D. Oliver. Dial in Information: +1 203-684-6202, Phone conference ID: 781 741 170#. (Kelsey, N) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

#40

Jan 14, 2026

NOTICE by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar re 37 Order,,,, Compliance with Order (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

#41

Jan 14, 2026

NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE WITH PRETRIAL ORDER by M. S. re 37 Order,,,, ECF No. 37 (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

#42

Jan 14, 2026

Joint MOTION for Extension of Time until 1/27/26 & 2/2/26 Respondents' Opposition to TRO/PI Motion ECF No. 18 & Petitioners' Reply by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

#43

Jan 14, 2026

RESPONSE re 32 Order,,,, PETITIONER'S SUPPLEMENTAL BRIEF filed by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

#44

Jan 14, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Christopher Folsom on behalf of Randi Cavallaro (Folsom, Christopher) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

Jan 14, 2026

Set Motion and Rcmd Ruling Deadlines/Hearings

Jan 14, 2026

Calendar Entry

#45

Jan 15, 2026

NOTICE of Intent to Request Redaction by Steven R. Strom re 29 Transcript,,,, (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

#46

Jan 15, 2026

ORDER granting in part and denying in part 42 Motion for Extension of Time. Respondents shall respond to Petitioner's PI/TRO Motion on or before January 23, 2026. All other deadlines remain unchanged. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/15/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

#47

Jan 15, 2026

MOTION for Extension of Time until January 23, 2026 to Respond to 33 Motion for Expedited Discovery 37 Order,,,, 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY, 36 Order,,,, by Randi Cavallaro. (Folsom, Christopher) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

Jan 15, 2026

Set Deadlines as to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO: Responses due by 1/23/2026. (Kelsey, N)

Jan 15, 2026

Order on Motion for Extension of Time

#48

Jan 16, 2026

ORDER granting in part and denying in part 47 Motion for Extension of Time. Respondent Cavallaro shall respond to the Motion for Expedited Discovery on or before January 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM, as the Court is holding a telephonic status conference on the issue of expedited discovery on January 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM. See ECF No. 36. Deadlines for all other parties remain unchanged. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/16/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

#49

Jan 16, 2026

AFFIDAVIT of Service for Summons and Petition, ECF No. 1 served on USAO, Salazar, Adams, Kennedy, and U.S. AG Bondi on January 7, 2026, filed by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

#50

Jan 16, 2026

RESPONSE re 32 Order,,,, Respondents' Supplemental Brief filed by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

#51

Jan 16, 2026

Memorandum in Opposition re 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY filed by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

#52

Jan 16, 2026

Memorandum in Opposition CORRECTED re 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY filed by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

#53

Jan 16, 2026

Memorandum in Opposition OFFICIAL CORRECTED re 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY filed by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

Jan 16, 2026

Order on Motion for Extension of Time

Jan 16, 2026

Set Deadlines as to 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY: Respondent Cavallaro Response due by 10:00am on 1/20/2026. (Kelsey, N)

Jan 16, 2026

Set Motion and Rcmd Ruling Deadlines/Hearings

#54

Jan 19, 2026

REPLY to Response to 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY filed by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/19/2026)

#55

Jan 19, 2026

STATUS REPORT OF THE PETITIONER by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/19/2026)

Jan 19, 2026

Set Motion and Rcmd Ruling Deadlines/Hearings

#56

Jan 20, 2026

RESPONSE re 33 MOTION MOTION FOR EXPEDITED DISCOVERY filed by Randi Cavallaro. (Folsom, Christopher) (Entered: 01/20/2026)

#57

Jan 20, 2026

Consent MOTION to Strike ECF No. 21-1 and SUBSTITUTE ATTACHED CORRECTED REDACTED DECLARATION OF PETITIONER by M. S..Responses due by 2/10/2026 (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/20/2026)

#58

Jan 20, 2026

ORDER. After due consideration of the parties’ briefs, and based on the telephonic status conference held earlier today, the Court issues the following orders:First, Petitioner’s 33 Motion for Expedited Discovery (the “Motion”) is denied without prejudice. Petitioner brought the Motion prematurely, before Respondents produced the administrative record. “It is plain that the Court cannot decide whether the administrative record is adequate when the record itself has not yet been produced.” Manker v. Spencer, No. 3:18-CV-372 (CSH), 2019 WL 1506654, at *4 (D. Conn. Apr. 5, 2019). Petitioner’s arguments to the contrary are premised on his prediction that the administrative record is deficient in some way. However, as discussed on the record at the status conference held earlier today, much of Petitioner’s requested discovery likely exists within the administrative record. Further, he cannot demonstrate that the administrative record is deficient because it has not yet been produced. See id. Accordingly, the Court will entertain future discovery motions, including any allegations of bad faith, after Respondents produce the record.Second, the Court shall not hear witness testimony at the February 5, 2026, hearing. At this time, Petitioners are not permitted to introduce evidence beyond what was considered by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (“ORR”) in rendering its decision. See Almaklani v. Trump, 444 F. Supp. 3d 425, 431 (E.D.N.Y. 2020) (“When a reviewing court considers evidence that was not before the agency, it inevitably leads the reviewing court to substitute its own judgment for that of the agency.”). Petitioner has not demonstrated unique circumstances allowing the Court to consider evidence outside of the agency record, and he has not yet established the constitutional claims are sufficiently distinct from his APA claims to warrant separate consideration of evidence. See id. (finding that “the addition of constitutional claims does not alter the sufficiency of the record”); see also Chang v. U.S. Citizenship & Immigri. Servs., 254 F. Supp. 3d 160, 162 (D.D.C. 2017) (finding that plaintiffs’ constitutional claims were “fundamentally similar to their APA claims”).Third, Respondents Salazar, Kennedy, and Adams (collectively, the “Federal Respondents”), are ordered to produce all ORR records related to Petitioner M.S. on or before January 23, 2026. This shall include, but is not limited to, all records concerning any sponsorship application related to Petitioner M.S., and all allegedly fraudulent documents submitted during the process of any of those sponsorship applications. The full record shall be filed under seal on the docket, pursuant to Local Rule 5(e), as it will contain Petitioner’s sensitive personal information. The Federal Respondents shall also file an unsealed, redacted version of the record. Further, on or before January 26, 2026, the Federal Respondents shall provide the Court with two unredacted courtesy copies of the record that comply with the Court’s pretrial preferences. See https://www.ctd.uscourts.gov/content/vernon-d-oliver.Fourth, it is hereby ordered that Respondents file a response on or before March 5, 2026, why the relief prayed for in the 1 petition for writ of habeas corpus should not be granted. Petitioner shall reply by March 19, 2026.Fifth, Petitioner shall immediately notify the Court of any new sponsorship applications or substantial developments in the anticipated Connecticut state court proceeding.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/20/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/20/2026)

#59

Jan 20, 2026

ORDER granting 57 Motion to Strike ECF No. 21-1 pursuant to Rule 56(a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Local Rule 5(e), as it contains the minor Petitioners full name. The corrected declaration at ECF No. 57 is substituted for the erroneously unredacted declaration at ECF No. 21-1. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/20/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/20/2026)

#60

Jan 20, 2026

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Vernon D. Oliver: Status Conference held on 1/20/2026. Total Time: 0 hours and 47 minutes (Court Reporter Corinne Thomas). (Frostbutter, S) Modified on 1/22/2026 to correct date filed (Kelsey, N). (Entered: 01/21/2026)

Jan 20, 2026

Answer deadline updated for Alex J. Adams to 3/8/2026; Robert F. Kennedy, Jr to 3/8/2026; Angie Salazar to 3/8/2026. (Denault, S)

Jan 20, 2026

Set Deadlines: Respondents response to 1 Petition for wit of Habeas Corpus: Deadline set for 3/5/2026 (Kelsey, N)

Jan 20, 2026

Order on Motion for Miscellaneous Relief

Jan 20, 2026

Update Answer Deadline

Jan 20, 2026

Order on Motion to Strike

Jan 22, 2026

Set Deadlines/Hearings

#61

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 1 (000001 - 396) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#62

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 2 (000397 - 697) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#63

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 3 (000698 - 970) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#64

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 4 (000971 - 1175) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#65

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 5 (001176 - 1380) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#66

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 6 (001381 - 1578) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#67

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 7 (001579 -1938) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#68

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 8 (001939 - 2273) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#69

Jan 23, 2026

Sealed Document: RECORD PART 9 (002274 - 2522) by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar . (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#70

Jan 23, 2026

NOTICE by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar RE: return of record, filed under seal, with request to be excused from filing redacted record on the docket (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#71

Jan 23, 2026

ORDER: In the Notice at ECF No. 70, the Federal Respondents request to be excused from filing the redacted record on the docket. Given the length of the record, the Court agrees, and grants this request. Upon review of the record, the Court finds good cause to do so because the entire record contains sensitive information about a minor child.Additionally, the Federal Respondents are excused from the requirement to provide the Court with two courtesy copies of the record.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/23/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

#72

Jan 23, 2026

Memorandum in Opposition re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO filed by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - Declaration of Toby Biswas)(Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 01/23/2026)

Jan 23, 2026

Order

#73

Jan 29, 2026

Consent MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages AS TO THE REPLY MEMORANDUM IN REPLY TO RESPONDENTS' OPPOSITION AND IN SUPPORT OF MOTION FOR TRO/PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/29/2026)

#74

Jan 29, 2026

ORDER granting 73 Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages. Petitioner shall file a reply of no more than twenty-five (25) pages. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 1/29/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 01/29/2026)

Jan 29, 2026

Order on Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages

#75

Jan 30, 2026

REPLY to Response to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO filed by M. S.. (Attachments: # 1 Appendix A.P.N.S. v Salazar Memorandum Opinion and Order)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/30/2026)

#76

Jan 30, 2026

Consent MOTION to Seal Best Interests Determination (BID) by M. S.. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Exhibit Best Interests Determination (BID) REDACTED)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/30/2026)

#77

Jan 30, 2026

Sealed Document: Best Interests Determination (BID) (UNREDACTED) by M. S. re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO . (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 01/30/2026)

#78

Feb 02, 2026

ORDER granting in part and denying in part 77 Motion to Seal. The purported unredacted document filed under seal is an identical copy of the redacted document filed publicly as Exhibit 2 to Petitioner's motion to seal. Accordingly, the Court denies the motion to seal because the minors' names are already redacted. On or before February 4, 2026, Defendant shall file the unredacted version of this document under seal. Pursuant to Local Rule 5(e)(4)(b), the Court preemptively seals the unredacted version of this document because it contains the names of Petitioner and his sister, both minors, and Petitioner's A number. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/2/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/02/2026)

#79

Feb 02, 2026

Sealed Document: UNREDACTED SEALED BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION by M. S. . (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 02/02/2026)

Feb 02, 2026

Order on Motion to Seal

#80

Feb 04, 2026

ORDER: The Federal Defendants' response repeatedly cites page 3000 of the Certified Administrative Record ("CAR"), for the proposition that ORR informed Ms. Stenor on November 20, 2025, that the sponsorship application was denied. (ECF No. 72 at 12, 19, 20). The CAR filed on the docket ends at page 2522. (ECF No. 69). Accordingly, on or before 5:00 PM today, February 4, 2026, the Federal Defendants shall either (1) file on the docket any outstanding or missing documents from the CAR, or (2) file a notice with an accurate citation to the record. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/4/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/04/2026)

#81

Feb 04, 2026

NOTICE by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar re 80 Order,, (Rocco, Sarah) (Entered: 02/04/2026)

#82

Feb 04, 2026

ORDER: The parties shall come to oral argument tomorrow prepared to discuss ORR's apparent November 14, 2025, determination that Petitioner should be released to his sponsor, Ms. Stenor. See CAR 2521. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/4/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/04/2026)

Feb 04, 2026

Order

#83

Feb 05, 2026

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Vernon D. Oliver: Motion Hearing held on 2/5/2026 re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO filed by M. S. Total Time: 1 hour and 39 minutes. (Court Reporter Corinne Thomas) (Kelsey, N) (Entered: 02/05/2026)

#84

Feb 06, 2026

MOTION for Hearing re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction and for a TRO Motion for an Evidentiary Hearing by M. S.. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Motion for Evidentiary Hearing)(Strom, Steven) (Entered: 02/06/2026)

#85

Feb 07, 2026

ORDER: For the reasons in the attached memorandum, the Court grants Petitioner's 18 Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order and a Preliminary Injunction. Petitioner shall be released into the custody of his next friend, Cleante Stenor, on or before February 13, 2026, at 9:00 AM. No bond is required for release. Given the logistical complexity of releasing Petitioner, the parties shall file a joint notice under seal on the docket no later than February 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM informing the Court of the plan for his release. By February 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM, the Federal Respondents shall file a notice with the Court confirming that Petitioner was successfully reunited with his family. The parties shall also file a joint status report on February 20, 2026, appraising the Court of (1) Petitioner's current status and confirming, again, that he remains successfully reunited with his family; (2) any intended next steps, including whether Petitioner intends to withdraw the habeas petition or whether he seeks to transfer the instant case the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/7/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/07/2026)

#86

Feb 07, 2026

ORDER denying as moot 84 Motion for Hearing. Given that the Court granted Petitioner's Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order and Preliminary Injunction, the Court denies Petitioner's motion for a second hearing as moot. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/7/2026. (Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/07/2026)

Feb 07, 2026

Set Deadlines: Joint Status Report due by 2/20/2026; Plan for Release due 2/9/2026 by 5:00 pm. (Kelsey, N)

Feb 07, 2026

Order on Motion for Hearing

Feb 08, 2026

Set Deadlines/Hearings

#87

Feb 09, 2026

Sealed Document: JOINT NOTICE AND REPORT OF RELEASE by M. S. re 85 Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction,,,, . (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 02/09/2026)

#88

Feb 13, 2026

NOTICE by Alex J. Adams, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, Angie Salazar re 85 Order on Motion for Preliminary Injunction,,,, (Orticelli, Jillian) (Entered: 02/13/2026)

#89

Feb 20, 2026

Joint STATUS REPORT by M. S.. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

#90

Feb 23, 2026

NOTICE of Voluntary Dismissal of Case by M. S. (Strom, Steven) (Entered: 02/23/2026)

#91

Feb 23, 2026

ORDER: Petitioner voluntarily dismissed the claims against Respondents without prejudice. (ECF No. 90). Accordingly, all deadlines are adjourned, and the Clerk of Court shall close the case. Signed by Judge Vernon D. Oliver on 2/23/2026.(Frostbutter, S) (Entered: 02/23/2026)

Feb 23, 2026

Order

Feb 23, 2026

JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS SURVEY - FOR COUNSEL ONLY: The following link to the confidential survey requires you to log into CM/ECF for SECURITY purposes. Once in CM/ECF you will be prompted for the case number. Although you are receiving this survey through CM/ECF, it is hosted on an independent website called SurveyMonkey. Once in SurveyMonkey, the survey is located in a secure account. The survey is not docketed and it is not sent directly to the judge. To ensure anonymity, completed surveys are held up to 90 days before they are sent to the judge for review. We hope you will take this opportunity to participate, please click on this link: https://ecf.ctd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/Dispatch.pl?survey (Kelsey, N)

Feb 23, 2026

Judicial Evaluation Program Survey