Trump Administration Faces Legal Showdown Over Mistaken Deportation of Maryland Resident

Judge orders Kilmar Abrego Garcia's return from El Salvador by April 7, but administration resists compliance, citing jurisdictional challenges.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a legally protected Maryland resident, was mistakenly deported to El Salvador in March despite a court order prohibiting his removal.
Judge Paula Xinis ruled the deportation illegal, describing it as 'wholly lawless,' and ordered Garcia's return to the U.S. by April 7, 2025.
The Trump administration has appealed the ruling, arguing it cannot comply due to jurisdictional limitations, while Garcia remains detained in El Salvador's CECOT prison.
DOJ attorneys Erez Reuveni and August Flentje have been placed on administrative leave for their roles in the case, with Reuveni admitting he lacked information on the deportation's basis.
The case has drawn criticism over human rights concerns, as Garcia is held in a notorious prison, and over the administration's defiance of judicial authority.