Story perspectives

Judge Orders Release of Wrongfully Deported Maryland Father

12/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland father, was wrongfully deported to El Salvador and detained in a mega-prison.
After returning to the U.S., he faced potential deportation to Uganda, Eswatini, and Liberia.
A federal judge ordered his release from ICE detention, citing improper procedures and due process violations.
Attorney Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg stated the government's actions appeared punitive.
Costa Rica offered him refugee status, which he prefers over deportation to an African country.

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Story summary

Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland father, was wrongfully deported to El Salvador and detained in a mega-prison.
After returning to the U.S., he faced potential deportation to Uganda, Eswatini, and Liberia.
A federal judge ordered his release from ICE detention, citing improper procedures and due process violations.
Attorney Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg stated the government's actions appeared punitive.
Costa Rica offered him refugee status, which he prefers over deportation to an African country.