News|MigrationUS judge rejects Abrego Garcia’s asylum bid after wrongful deportationThe rejection of his asylum case is the latest turn in a case that has become emblematic of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign.
A United States immigration judge has denied an asylum application from Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported to El Salvador and later returned to the United States. The decision was announced on Wed, Aug 27, 2025.
A United States immigration judge has denied an asylum application from Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported to El Salvador and later returned to the United States. The decision was announced on Wed, Aug 27, 2025.
Despite a previous court order, Abrego Garcia was deported in March as part of mass deportation efforts. Following a Supreme Court directive, he was returned to the U.S. in June. However, upon his return, federal authorities charged him with human smuggling related to a 2022 incident in Tennessee, leading to his detention.
Legal Proceedings and Deportation Efforts
Abrego Garcia has been given 30 days to appeal the recent asylum denial. He initially entered the United States undocumented as a teenager and resided in Maryland with his family for several years. In 2019, a judge ruled against his asylum eligibility but prohibited his deportation to El Salvador due to safety concerns.
Since his return, immigration authorities have sought alternative deportation options to third countries, with Uganda and Eswatini mentioned as possibilities. Abrego Garcia is currently detained in Pennsylvania, pending further legal actions.
Despite a previous court order, Abrego Garcia was deported in March as part of mass deportation efforts.
The Trump administration has labeled Abrego Garcia as a member of the MS-13 gang, although his legal representatives have disputed this claim. They argue that the administration's statements could influence judicial proceedings unfairly and have called for restrictions on such claims.
Critics have highlighted the potential human rights implications of the deportation practices, particularly concerning individuals with longstanding ties to the United States and no significant criminal records. Abrego Garcia has never been convicted of a crime.
Additionally, legal challenges have been raised against the use of the Alien Enemies Act for expedited deportations without judicial review. A federal appeals court recently ruled against this application of the law, and the case may advance to the Supreme Court.
In a separate legal action, Abrego Garcia has alleged mistreatment while detained in El Salvador, citing psychological and physical abuse.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.