A federal judge has instructed lawyers representing the Trump administration to quickly respond to requests regarding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador last month. Judge Paula Xinis emphasized the urgency of the matter during a hearing on Tuesday, stating that the government has two weeks to provide detailed information concerning the steps being taken to assist Garcia’s return to the U.S.
At the hearing, Xinis urged lawyers to prioritize this case, stating, “Cancel vacations, cancel other appointments,” to ensure compliance with her orders. She indicated that she would soon issue a written directive for the government to demonstrate how they are facilitating Garcia’s release and return, reflecting her serious concern over the situation.
Judge Xinis previously highlighted that the Supreme Court had already ruled in favor of Garcia, mandating the U.S. to help him return and resume his immigration proceedings as if he had never been removed. She made it clear that the discovery process would proceed quickly, showing determination to rectify the situation.
During the hearing, Justice Department lawyers expressed objections to Xinis’s interpretation of the Supreme Court ruling. Xinis noted the administration’s loss in previous legal arguments, reinforcing the necessity for action regarding Garcia’s case. Meanwhile, officials from the Department of Homeland Security stated that if Garcia were returned, he would be detained and potentially removed to another country due to alleged gang affiliations.
The hearing comes in light of ongoing non-compliance by government lawyers who have failed to keep the court updated on Garcia’s location and status since his deportation. This lack of communication has alarmed Judge Xinis, who described their actions as “extremely troubling.”
Garcia’s lawyers argued that there is insufficient evidence to show that the administration has made any effort to facilitate his return as mandated by both federal and Supreme Court directions. They stressed that the government’s reports reveal no actions have been taken in line with the court’s orders.
The situation escalates as Xinis considers whether to hold the Trump administration in civil contempt for failing to comply with judicial orders. Meanwhile, recent rulings from federal judges in Texas and New York have paused the administration’s use of certain laws designed for immediate deportations, citing concerns over potential harm to individuals affected.
In a response to inquiries about serious steps taken to return Garcia, Trump officials noted that the decision is ultimately in the hands of the Salvadoran government, indicating a reluctance to intervene, further complicating his case.
Garcia’s plight highlights the complexities of immigration policy under the Trump administration and raises questions regarding the enforcement of protections for individuals in similar situations.
