GREENBELT, Md. (AP) — A federal judge is set to hear arguments on the future of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was freed from immigration detention only a week ago after being mistakenly deported to El Salvador. The ruling will weigh whether he should be returned to custody as the government moves forward with plans for his deportation.
Abrego Garcia, who has lived in Maryland for years with his American wife and child, has been at the center of a contentious immigration discussion following his wrongful deportation. After being detained since August, he was released on December 11 due to a judge's ruling that highlighted errors in the government's handling of his case.
Despite Abrego Garcia's agreement to be deported to Costa Rica, government officials have proposed sending him to other countries, including Uganda and Liberia, adding further complexity to his situation. Judge Paula Xinis has criticized the government for its refusal to recognize Costa Rica as a viable option, claiming that its actions reflect a lack of intent toward a 'basic purpose' of timely deportation.
In 2019, Abrego Garcia was granted protection by an immigration judge based on threats from gangs against his family. However, his journey through the immigration system has been riddled with errors that now position him back under legal scrutiny. Abrego Garcia’s lawyers argue that the prolonged detention without a clear path for deportation contradicts U.S. Supreme Court rulings on immigration proceedings, calling it tantamount to punitive action.
The federal judge’s upcoming decision could set a significant precedent regarding the treatment of individuals in immigration detention and the responsibilities of U.S. officials in handling such cases effectively and humanely.
