Judge hammers DOJ attorneys during alleged MS-13 gang member hearing

A Maryland federal judge has strongly criticized government attorneys during a hearing regarding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national and Maryland resident who was wrongly deported to El Salvador. The judge, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis, expressed frustration with the lack of information provided by the Department of Justice (DOJ) attorney Drew Ensign regarding Abrego Garcia’s whereabouts.

Abrego Garcia, 29, was deported to a prison in El Salvador last month after being accused of being a member of the MS-13 gang. However, his attorneys have vehemently denied any ties to the violent gang. Judge Xinis questioned Ensign about Abrego Garcia’s location and who had authority over him. Ensign admitted that he did not have that information, which led to further frustration from the judge.

The Supreme Court recently upheld Xinis’ order that federal officials must coordinate Abrego Garcia’s return to Maryland. The court acknowledged that his deportation to El Salvador was illegal due to a withholding order preventing his removal to the country. The government was instructed to facilitate his release from custody in El Salvador and handle his case as if he had not been improperly sent there.

During the hearing, Ensign stated that it was unclear what steps had been taken to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return. Judge Xinis expressed disappointment and requested daily updates on the progress of his return from a source with direct knowledge. She emphasized the urgency of the situation and urged the government to act swiftly.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked about the case during a briefing, especially with the upcoming visit of El Salvador’s president to the White House. Leavitt reiterated that the administration is responsible for facilitating Abrego Garcia’s return, not effectuating it.

Abrego Garcia’s attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, emphasized the importance of bringing him back to the United States and providing regular updates on the progress. Abrego Garcia had fled El Salvador to escape gang violence and had been living in Maryland with his brother, who is a U.S. citizen.

The case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia highlights the complexities of immigration and deportation policies and the need for swift and transparent action to rectify wrongful deportations. The judge’s insistence on accountability and urgency underscores the gravity of the situation and the importance of upholding the rule of law.