Federal Judge Orders Immediate Release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia

UPDATE: A federal judge has ordered the immediate release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from immigration detention, a pivotal decision that could reshape his future as he challenges his deportation. The ruling was issued on December 7, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Judge Xinis stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) must release Abrego Garcia while his legal battle unfolds. “Since Abrego Garcia’s return from wrongful detention in El Salvador, he has been re-detained, again without lawful authority,” the judge wrote, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

This ruling comes after Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national with an American wife and child, was mistakenly deported to El Salvador in March. His case has become a significant focal point for immigration reform advocates, especially in light of the Trump administration’s policies.

Abrego Garcia’s legal team argues that the deportation process is being weaponized against him for the administration’s embarrassment over the previous mistake. Following his return to the U.S. under court order, ICE has sought to deport him to various African countries, a move his lawsuit claims is illegal.

In addition to his immigration challenges, Abrego Garcia faces separate criminal charges in Tennessee for human smuggling, to which he has pleaded not guilty. His team has filed a motion to dismiss those charges, claiming they are vindictive in nature.

The immediate implications of this ruling are profound, as it not only affects Abrego Garcia’s freedom but also highlights broader issues within the U.S. immigration system. His supporters see this as a victory, while the Justice Department has yet to respond to the ruling.

Abrego Garcia is currently petitioning to reopen his immigration case to seek asylum, making this a critical moment for his future in the United States. As developments unfold, all eyes will be on the next steps in this high-stakes legal battle.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.