U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis is weighing potential contempt proceedings against the Trump administration regarding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man wrongly deported to El Salvador. During a hearing on April 15, 2025, Judge Xinis expressed frustration over the government's lack of action in facilitating Abrego Garcia’s return since her initial order for repatriation.
Abrego Garcia was deported on March 15 despite a 2019 immigration ruling that prohibited his removal due to fears of persecution by local gangs. His legal team has accused the administration of failing to comply with court orders and requested the court hold them in contempt for their inaction.
The Justice Department, represented by Drew Ensign, argued that they have adhered to the judge’s directives but maintained that they could only facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return if he presented himself at a U.S. port of entry. This claim was met with skepticism by Judge Xinis, who stated that she had received "nothing" substantial from the government regarding their efforts.
The hearing follows a Supreme Court ruling affirming Judge Xinis's order for the administration to "facilitate" Abrego Garcia's return. However, officials from El Salvador have indicated they will not comply with U.S. requests for his return, further complicating the situation.
Judge Xinis ordered expedited discovery, including depositions from Trump administration officials, and set a deadline for completion by April 23. She emphasized that every day Abrego Garcia remains detained in El Salvador constitutes "irreparable harm."
The case highlights ongoing tensions between the judiciary and executive branches regarding immigration enforcement and raises critical questions about accountability in the handling of deportation cases.
