Judges Order Kilmar Abrego Garcia Released From Federal Custody

Two federal judges ordered the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, from federal custody. Abrego Garcia was initially removed to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act, sparking controversy. He was then returned to the U.S. to face felony smuggling charges in Tennessee. The government intends to remove him again, but the judges' orders prevent his detention and reinstate his previous ICE supervision. Abrego Garcia illegally entered the U.S. in 2012 and was suspected of gang involvement, with the Trump administration linking him to MS-13. He had previously been granted a "withholding of removal" order due to persecution risks in El Salvador. He is married to a U.S. citizen and has a child with her. The Supreme Court previously directed the government to facilitate his release from custody in El Salvador. The order allows for potential removal to a third country and requires the government to provide 72 hours' notice before any removal attempt.