Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man who was wrongfully deported to a high-security prison in El Salvador, has encountered yet another distressing turn of events. Less than 24 hours after his release from federal custody, immigration authorities notified him of potential deportation to Uganda. This alarming news follows Abrego's release from a detention facility near Nashville, Tennessee, where he had been held since his return to the U.S. in June, after being mistakenly sent to El Salvador’s notorious CECOT prison.
Abrego’s harrowing journey began when he was wrongfully deported by the Trump administration to the harsh conditions of El Salvador’s CECOT prison in March. This deportation violated a withholding of removal order that had been issued in 2019, which protects him from being deported back to his home country due to fears of persecution from violent gangs. Despite this protective order, it does not prevent his deportation to a third country, which is where Uganda comes into play.
Upon his release, immigration authorities indicated that Abrego “may be removed to Uganda no less than 72 hours absent weekends,” as reported by a source familiar with the case. This timeline aligns with standard ICE procedures, which require a 72-hour notice before deportation to third countries. Abrego's legal team has informed the judge in the Middle District of Tennessee about ICE's intent to deport him, complicating his situation further.
The potential deportation carries significant legal implications for Abrego. He is facing criminal charges from the Department of Justice related to human smuggling, and if he is deported, he may evade facing these charges. Abrego, a dedicated father of three, was joyously reunited with his family on Friday after spending nearly half a year apart. Advocates released poignant images capturing the emotional moment of reunification, showcasing a teary-eyed Abrego embracing his youngest son.
Reflecting on his emotional reunion, Abrego expressed, “Today has been a very special day because I have seen my family for the first time in more than 160 days.” He extended his gratitude to those who supported him throughout this challenging ordeal, stating, “I have witnessed that so many people have been by my side with such positivity.” Despite the joy of reunification, he acknowledged that “we are steps closer to justice, but justice has not been fully served.”
Following his return to the United States in June, Abrego was charged with conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. He has pleaded not guilty to these charges, and while a trial date has been set for January, uncertainty looms over whether he will be able to attend, given the latest developments regarding his potential deportation.
The case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia highlights the complexities of immigration law and the profound impact it has on families. His story serves as a reminder of the urgent need for reform and fairness within the immigration system.
