Trump Administration Admits Mistaken Deportation of Maryland Resident to Salvadoran Prison

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a legally protected Maryland resident, remains detained in El Salvador's CECOT prison after the U.S. government acknowledged an administrative error in his deportation.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, granted legal protection from deportation in 2019, was mistakenly deported to El Salvador on March 15, 2025, despite a court order prohibiting his removal.
The Trump administration admitted the deportation was an administrative error but argued U.S. courts lack jurisdiction to order his return as he is now in Salvadoran custody.
Abrego Garcia is currently detained in CECOT, a Salvadoran prison known for severe overcrowding and human rights abuses, raising international concerns over his safety.
Vice President JD Vance faced backlash for falsely claiming Abrego Garcia was a convicted MS-13 gang member, despite court documents showing no criminal convictions.
Abrego Garcia's family has filed a lawsuit demanding his return to the U.S., accusing the administration of knowingly violating his protected status and disregarding judicial orders.