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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Travis Loller

DOJ pushed to prosecute Kilmar Abrego Garcia only after mistaken deportation, judge's order says

Deportation Error Abrego Garcia - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A newly unsealed order in the criminal case against Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals that high-level Justice Department officials pushed for his indictment, calling it a “top priority," only after he was mistakenly deported and then ordered returned to the U.S.

Abrego Garcia has pleaded not guilty in federal court in Tennessee to charges of human smuggling. He is seeking to have the case dismissed on the grounds that the prosecution is vindictive — a way for President Donald Trump's administration to punish him for the embarrassment of his mistaken deportation.

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