Story perspectives

Judge Blocks Indefinite Detention Amid Asylum Dispute

12/16/2025

Center

Judge Blocks Detention

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis blocked the re-detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, citing government misrepresentation and no basis for indefinite detention.
Abrego Garcia faces human smuggling charges from a 2022 traffic stop and has applied for asylum while resisting deportation to El Salvador.
The Department of Homeland Security criticized the ruling as 'naked judicial activism'.
The decision leaves his asylum and deportation proceedings unresolved.

Left

Luttig Critiques Bove

Former federal judge J. Michael Luttig criticized Judge Bove for attending a politically charged rally, calling it inappropriate for a sitting federal judge.
Judge Bove's confirmation passed by a single vote amid significant opposition.
As acting Deputy Attorney General, he dismissed prosecutors involved in January 6 cases.
A whistle-blower complaint alleged Judge Bove made controversial remarks about deportation plans.
Judicial ethics experts say the rally attendance undermines judicial impartiality.

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Judge Blocks Detention

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis blocked the re-detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, citing government misrepresentation and no basis for indefinite detention.
Abrego Garcia faces human smuggling charges from a 2022 traffic stop and has applied for asylum while resisting deportation to El Salvador.
The Department of Homeland Security criticized the ruling as 'naked judicial activism'.
The decision leaves his asylum and deportation proceedings unresolved.

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