DOJ Unaware of Maryland Immigrant's Whereabouts After Wrongful Deportation to El Salvador Prison

On Friday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that the current whereabouts of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland-based Salvadoran immigrant who was wrongfully deported to an El Salvador megaprison, remain unknown. This admission follows the Supreme Court's decision to uphold a lower federal court ruling that facilitates Garcia's return from the Central American facility.

Judicial Orders and Responses

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis had previously directed the DOJ to provide specific information about Garcia's status, including his physical location, any steps taken to facilitate his return, and further actions planned. The deadline was set for 9:30 a.m. on Friday. Furthermore, Judge Xinis requested daily updates on Garcia's location and the government's efforts to expedite his return.

DOJ's Lack of Information

During a federal court hearing on Friday, Judge Xinis pressed DOJ attorney Drew Ensign for information about Garcia's whereabouts. Ensign could only confirm that Garcia was in the custody of Salvadoran officials but could not provide any details about his specific location. Judge Xinis expressed her frustration, stating, "I’m not asking for state secrets. I’m asking where one man is." The lack of information was deemed "extremely troubling" by Judge Xinis.

Government's Inaction

Judge Xinis also inquired about the government's efforts to facilitate Garcia's return. Ensign's response that it was "unclear" if any actions had been taken led Judge Xinis to conclude that the government had not made any efforts. She criticized the government's lack of action, stating, "To say to me that you don’t have personal knowledge means that you don’t have effective contact with your clients."

DOJ's Delayed Response

In a written response, the DOJ claimed that they were unable to provide the requested information due to the impracticable deadline set by the court. They argued that the court had not clarified what it meant to "facilitate" or "effectuate" Garcia's return and requested the opportunity to brief that issue before compliance deadlines were imposed. The DOJ also asserted that they were reviewing the Supreme Court's order and evaluating next steps.

Background on Kilmar Abrego Garcia

Federal court filings revealed that Abrego Garcia fled El Salvador to escape gang violence and entered the United States illegally in 2011. He settled in Maryland, where he established a life, got married, and became a father. However, he was arrested in Baltimore on March 12, leading to his wrongful deportation to El Salvador.

Call for Urgent Action

Judge Xinis emphasized the need for the government to take immediate action to facilitate Garcia's return, expressing concern over the lack of information and progress. The situation has raised questions about the government's commitment to rectifying the wrongful deportation and ensuring Garcia's safe return to the United States.