Supreme Court Affirms Return of Wrongfully Deported Man Following Trump Administration's 'Administrative Error' Admission

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident, was wrongfully deported to El Salvador by the Trump Administration, an action the administration later conceded was due to an "administrative error." The U.S. Supreme Court subsequently affirmed a lower court's order for the government to facilitate his return to the United States. This complex legal battle underscores the challenges faced by individuals caught in the crosshairs of aggressive immigration enforcement policies.

Abrego Garcia, who had lived in the U.S. for over a decade and held protected status since 2019, was deported in March 2025 to El Salvador's notorious CECOT mega-prison. The Trump administration alleged he was a member of the MS-13 gang, despite a lack of criminal record or credible evidence presented in court. His protected status, known as "withholding of removal," was specifically granted to prevent his deportation to El Salvador due to fears of persecution.

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland initially ordered the administration to "facilitate and effectuate" Abrego Garcia's return by an April deadline. The Department of Justice initially resisted, arguing it lacked the authority to compel a foreign sovereign. However, the Supreme Court, in an unsigned order in April 2025, largely upheld Judge Xinis's directive, stating the government must "facilitate" his release and ensure his case is handled properly.

Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, Abrego Garcia's return was protracted, eventually occurring in June 2025. Upon his arrival, he was not released but instead faced new federal charges for allegedly participating in a human smuggling conspiracy. He pleaded not guilty to these charges, and after a period of detention, was released from criminal custody in August 2025 into the care of his brother in Maryland, though immigration authorities may still seek his deportation to a country other than El Salvador.

The case has drawn significant attention, with critics highlighting the administration's actions and the legal system's response. As stated in a tweet by Jon Favreau, "The Trump Administration admitted he was wrongfully deported because of an 'administrative error.' Their words. The Supreme Court agreed." The ongoing legal proceedings continue to test the boundaries of executive power and judicial oversight in immigration matters.