Fact Check: Judge warns Uthmeier of fines if he fails to comply with court's order
What We Know
On June 17, 2025, U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams found Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier in civil contempt for failing to comply with her court order that prohibited the enforcement of a new state law criminalizing illegal entry into Florida. The judge's ruling came after Uthmeier issued conflicting communications to law enforcement agencies, suggesting that they could continue enforcing the law despite her injunction. Judge Williams stated, "Litigants cannot change the plain meaning of words as it suits them, especially when conveying a court’s clear and unambiguous order" (AP News). As a consequence of his actions, the judge ordered Uthmeier to file biweekly reports regarding any law enforcement actions taken under the disputed law, warning that failure to comply could result in further sanctions, including fines (NBC News).
Analysis
The claim that Judge Williams warned Uthmeier of fines if he fails to comply with her order is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The judge explicitly stated that if Uthmeier does not comply with the requirement to report on law enforcement actions, she would consider imposing additional sanctions, which could include financial penalties (Florida Phoenix, Miami Herald).
Uthmeier's defiance of the court's order has been characterized as a significant legal misstep. He argued that he was merely expressing his legal opinion regarding the injunction, but the judge found his interpretations unconvincing and detrimental to the integrity of the court's orders (New York Times, AP News). The judge's ruling is notable in that it reflects a serious judicial response to perceived noncompliance by a state official, emphasizing the importance of adherence to court orders in the legal system.
The sources cited are reputable news organizations with a history of accurate reporting on legal matters, which adds to the reliability of the information presented. The Associated Press and NBC News, in particular, are known for their thorough journalistic standards and fact-checking processes.
Conclusion
The claim that Judge Williams warned Uthmeier of fines if he fails to comply with her court order is True. The evidence clearly indicates that the judge not only found Uthmeier in contempt but also explicitly stated that failure to adhere to her directives could lead to further sanctions, including financial penalties.
Sources
- Florida Attorney General Defied Order Blocking Part of Immigration Law
- Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt over ...
- Judge considers whether Florida's attorney general should be held in ...
- Federal judge holds AG James Uthmeier in contempt of court
- Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt for defying court ...
- Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt over ...
- Federal judge finds FL attorney general in contempt of court | Miami Herald
