A federal judge has ordered the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an El Salvadoran national with alleged ties to gang activity, and has prohibited U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from taking him back into custody.
According to court filings, the judge ruled that Garcia’s continued detention violated his constitutional rights, citing due process concerns. The ruling not only mandates his immediate release but also bars federal immigration authorities from re-detaining him on the same grounds.
Garcia, whose background reportedly includes gang affiliation, had been in ICE custody pending deportation. However, legal advocates argued that his detention was prolonged and lacked sufficient legal justification.
The decision has sparked controversy, with critics warning of potential public safety risks, while immigrant rights groups praised the ruling as a win for constitutional protections and judicial oversight.
ICE officials have not yet issued a formal statement in response to the ruling.
This is a developing story.
