BALTIMORE (AP) — Kilmar Abrego Garcia can now spend Christmas with his family after spending much of the year in custody. A U.S. District Judge in Maryland has issued an order requiring government attorneys to provide an update on their plans regarding Garcia's immigration status by December 26.
The temporary restraining order currently in effect prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from detaining Garcia, giving him a reprieve during the holiday season. Garcia's attorney, Lydia Walther-Rodriguez, expressed relief, saying the decision allows him to sleep in his own bed, free from fear of separation from his family during the holidays.
Garcia, a Salvadoran citizen, has become a central figure in the immigration debate. He was mistakenly deported to El Salvador earlier this year, where he faced imprisonment, despite having an American wife and child. His attempts to return to the U.S. have been clouded by accusations from government officials labeling him as a gang member, claims he has vehemently denied.
Originally immigrating illegally as a teenager, Garcia had previously been granted protection from deportation due to threats he faced in El Salvador. After a long legal battle, Garcia was brought back to the U.S. under court order, but his fight continues as he awaits further court hearings on his status.
His upcoming court proceedings will determine whether he can remain in the U.S., as government officials have threatened deportation to various countries. However, there has been no movement to deport him to Costa Rica, which he has agreed to, leading to accusations of misleading attempts by the government.
The next deadlines for government attorneys and Garcia’s legal team are set for the end of December, with the outcome holding significant implications for him and his family.
