Greenbelt, Maryland, December 23, 2025
A federal judge in Maryland has extended a temporary restraining order preventing ICE from detaining Kilmar Abrego Garcia through the Christmas holiday, allowing him to remain free while his immigration case is reviewed. Garcia, originally wrongfully deported to El Salvador despite a court order, faces charges in Tennessee linked to a traffic incident. His case sheds light on critical issues in U.S. immigration policy and the treatment of deportation cases.
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal judge has extended a temporary restraining order preventing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from detaining Kilmar Abrego Garcia through the Christmas holiday. This decision allows Garcia to remain free while his immigration case is under consideration.
Judge Paula Xinis of the U.S. District Court in Maryland issued the order on December 22, 2025, following a hearing where she questioned the government’s plans for Garcia’s deportation. The judge expressed concerns over the government’s previous actions, including Garcia’s unauthorized deportation to El Salvador and subsequent legal missteps. She emphasized the need for clarity regarding the government’s intentions and the status of Garcia’s case.
Garcia, a Salvadoran native, was wrongfully deported to El Salvador in March 2025, despite a 2019 court order prohibiting his removal due to threats from gangs in his home country. After a Supreme Court intervention, he was returned to the U.S. in June 2025. However, upon his return, he faced human smuggling charges in Tennessee, related to a 2022 traffic stop where he was driving a vehicle with nine passengers. Garcia has pleaded not guilty to these charges, which his attorneys argue are being used to justify the deportation error.
In August 2025, ICE attempted to deport Garcia to Uganda, a country with which he has no association. This move was blocked by Judge Xinis, who issued a temporary halt to his deportation until further hearings could be held. Garcia’s legal team has consistently argued that the government’s actions are retaliatory and aim to punish him for challenging the deportation error.
Garcia has lived in Maryland for several years with his American wife and child. His case has drawn significant attention, highlighting broader issues within U.S. immigration policy and the treatment of individuals facing deportation.
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with further hearings scheduled to determine the future of Garcia’s immigration status and potential deportation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s case?
A federal judge has extended a temporary restraining order preventing ICE from detaining Garcia through the Christmas holiday, allowing him to remain free while his immigration case is under consideration.
Why was Kilmar Abrego Garcia deported to El Salvador?
Garcia was wrongfully deported to El Salvador in March 2025, despite a 2019 court order prohibiting his removal due to threats from gangs in his home country.
What charges is Kilmar Abrego Garcia facing in Tennessee?
Garcia faces human smuggling charges in Tennessee, related to a 2022 traffic stop where he was driving a vehicle with nine passengers. He has pleaded not guilty to these charges.
What was the government’s attempt to deport Garcia to Uganda?
In August 2025, ICE attempted to deport Garcia to Uganda, a country with which he has no association. This move was blocked by Judge Xinis, who issued a temporary halt to his deportation until further hearings could be held.
What is the background of Kilmar Abrego Garcia?
Garcia is a Salvadoran native who has lived in Maryland for several years with his American wife and child. His case has drawn significant attention, highlighting broader issues within U.S. immigration policy and the treatment of individuals facing deportation.
Key Features of Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrongful Deportation | Deported to El Salvador in March 2025 despite a 2019 court order prohibiting removal due to gang threats. |
| Return to U.S. | Returned to the U.S. in June 2025 after a Supreme Court intervention. |
| Human Smuggling Charges | Facing charges in Tennessee related to a 2022 traffic stop; has pleaded not guilty. |
| Attempted Deportation to Uganda | ICE attempted deportation to Uganda in August 2025; blocked by federal judge. |
| Family and Community | Lives in Maryland with his American wife and child; case highlights broader immigration policy issues. |
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