Federal judge orders release in high-profile deportation case
Tap title to read story
Washington, A federal judge on Thursday ordered immediate release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody after finding officials lacked legal authority to detain following his wrongful March deportation to El Salvador. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis granted his habeas petition, concluded no final removal order existed, and blocked transfer to third countries. Abrego Garcia returned to the U.S. in June to face human-smuggling charges and has pleaded not guilty. DHS said it would continue legal efforts. He left custody Thursday in Baltimore and must report Friday this week. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2019: An immigration judge issued protection preventing deportation to El Salvador.
- 2. March: Abrego Garcia was wrongfully deported to El Salvador and detained there.
- 3. June: U.S. authorities returned Abrego Garcia to the United States to face human-smuggling charges.
- 4. October: Court filings indicated the government planned third-country removals, including Liberia.
- 5. December 11: Judge Paula Xinis granted habeas relief and ordered Abrego Garcia's immediate release.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
