The Supreme Court's 9-0 decision insists the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, mistakenly deported under a flawed administrative process.
Supreme Court Orders Return of Maryland Man Wrongly Deported to El Salvador
Supreme Court Orders Return of Maryland Man Wrongly Deported to El Salvador
US top court's unanimous ruling demands government action to rectify deportation error
In a significant ruling, the US Supreme Court has directed the Trump administration to ensure the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident wrongly deported to El Salvador following an "administrative error." The decision, rendered unanimously, confirms the authority of a lower court that mandated Garcia's return and the adherence to due process regarding his case.
Garcia, who had fled El Salvador and entered the US illegally as a teenager, had received protection from deportation against potential gang persecution in his home country. However, he was deported on March 15, despite a court ruling barring such action. The Supreme Court justices emphasized the necessity for the government to facilitate Garcia's release from custody in El Salvador's notorious Cecot prison, known for housing gang members, under an arrangement between the two nations.
After the Supreme Court's ruling, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, Garcia's attorney, expressed relief, stating, "The rule of law prevailed." He underscored that the administration must now act to bring Garcia back home.
The Trump administration recently contested a Maryland district court's order, arguing that the court had exceeded its authority and that US officials could not compel El Salvador to facilitate Garcia's return. Solicitor General D John Sauer emphasized that managing foreign affairs is a presidential prerogative, not one for district courts.
Originally, the Supreme Court had temporarily halted the district court's order while it deliberated on the issue. On Thursday, the court mandated Judge Paula Xinis to clarify her order regarding the government's obligations to return Garcia, showcasing the balanced dynamics of power within the judicial and executive branches.
While the justices did not specify a deadline for Garcia's return, the case will now revert to the trial court for further proceedings. Garcia's wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, has openly advocated for his release, conveying the emotional distress experienced by the family since his deportation. "I will continue fighting until my husband is home," she concluded, as the case draws national attention and raises questions about immigration policies and judicial authority.
