Deportated Man Returns to US to Face Human Smuggling Charges

Deportated Man Returns to US to Face Charges Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador during the Trump administration, has returned to the United States to face federal charges. A grand jury in Tennessee indicted Abrego Garcia on May 21st on two counts of alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the indictment at a news conference, stating, "On May 21st, a grand jury in the Middle District of Tennessee returned a sealed indictment charging Abrego Garcia with alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling in violation of Title 8 USC 1324." The Trump administration's deportation policies have been criticized for their impact on immigrants. Abrego Garcia's case highlights the complexities and potential for error in such policies. The U.S. government worked with El Salvador to secure his return, and Attorney General Bondi expressed gratitude to President Bukele for his cooperation. The successful return and subsequent indictment demonstrate a commitment to holding individuals accountable for human smuggling. Upon completion of his sentence, Abrego Garcia is expected to be returned to his home country of El Salvador.