Wrongful Deportation: ICE Admits Error in Case of Legal Resident Father Deported as MS-13 Suspect
Image of Cecot prison in El Salvador where wrongfully deported US resident Kilmar Abrego García is detained. Apr 1st, 2025 Photo: EFE
April 1, 2025 Hour: 6:38 pm
ICE admits wrongful deportation of legal US resident Kilmar Abrego García to Salvadoran prison. Case exposes flaws in Trump-era immigration enforcement.
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Legal Resident Wrongfully Deported to El Salvador
Kilmar Abrego García, a Salvadoran with legal U.S. residency and father of a disabled child, became embroiled in a controversial deportation case that has drawn criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. In March, Abrego was deported to El Salvador along with a group of migrants, including alleged MS-13 gang members, after initially being accused of being a leader of the criminal organization.
U.S. Authorities Admit Deportation Was a Mistake
During a recent court hearing, U.S. authorities acknowledged that Abrego’s deportation was an “administrative error.” Despite this admission, the government maintains its stance, alleging the Salvadoran is connected to human trafficking and continues to label him as a “terrorist.” The case has been denounced by human rights organizations and has raised concerns even among some Republican circles.
Family Discovers Him in Notorious Salvadoran Prison
Abrego, who legally resided in the U.S. with his wife Jennifer Vasquez Sura and their son who requires specialized care, was detained in March based on unfounded accusations. His family identified him among inmates at the Terrorism Confinement Center (Cecot) in El Salvador – a mega-prison notorious for torture allegations.
ICE Acknowledges Error But No Resolution
During the hearing, Robert L. Cerna, acting field office director of ICE in Maryland, admitted before federal judge Paula Xinis that the deportation was a mistake. However, this acknowledgment hasn’t led to Abrego’s release, as he remains imprisoned under conditions criticized by multiple organizations.
Legal Battle for Justice and Reparations
Abrego’s family has filed a lawsuit demanding his immediate release and “prompt redress,” arguing that the U.S. deported him knowing he could face torture. The legal team maintains Abrego has no criminal record or gang affiliations, and that his only “fault” was a tattoo that was misinterpreted.
Broader Implications for U.S. Immigration Policy
This case highlights the arbitrary use of laws and stereotypes in U.S. immigration policy, demonstrating how the Trump administration criminalized migrants without proper due process. Abrego’s deportation sets a concerning precedent as it involved the use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 – a law not invoked since World War II. The situation raises serious questions about ethics and justice in current immigration policies.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: The Atlantic - Commonsdreams - Agencias