Judge Xinis grills Trump lawyers over plans to deport Abrego Garcia in high-profile hearing
In a dramatic turn of events, Justice Department officials have revealed plans to begin removal proceedings to deport Salvadorian migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a third country as early as this month. This shocking admission came during a lengthy hearing before U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis, where little clarity was provided to all parties involved.
Xinis has ordered the Trump administration to produce a government official to testify under oath about the plans to take Abrego Garcia into ICE custody upon his release from criminal custody in Tennessee and initiate deportation proceedings to a third country. The administration has reluctantly admitted that Abrego Garcia could be deported as early as July 16, just nine days away.
The day in court was described as frustrating by Xinis, who likened it to “trying to nail Jell-O to a wall.” She questioned how officials could pursue immediate deportation while simultaneously pursuing a federal criminal case against Abrego Garcia.
When asked if Abrego Garcia would be held in ICE custody until the conclusion of his criminal case in Tennessee, Justice Department attorney Jonathan Guynn stated, “No.” He clarified that there was no intention to keep him in limbo in ICE custody and that he would be removed like any other illegal alien in the process.
The fast-tracked timeline for Abrego Garcia’s deportation to a third country was just one of many issues discussed during the hearing. Xinis rejected two of the government’s motions to dismiss the civil case, calling their claims meritless.
She also pressed Justice Department officials for details regarding the timing of a federal investigation into Abrego Garcia stemming from a 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee. Despite claiming they had no power to compel his return from El Salvador, the government had already secured an indictment against him in Tennessee.
Xinis has ordered the Trump administration to produce a government witness with firsthand knowledge of the deportation plans to testify in court on Thursday. The witness must be able to provide details about the immediate next steps following Abrego Garcia’s release from custody.
This ongoing saga highlights the complexities and challenges faced by migrants caught up in legal battles with the U.S. government. The case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia serves as a stark reminder of the obstacles faced by those seeking asylum in the United States. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing news story.
