Abrego Garcia's Custody Delayed Amid Immigration Dispute

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador in March despite a judge's 2019 order barring his removal, was returned to the U.S. in June following a court order. He now faces human smuggling charges in Tennessee, pleads not guilty, and is also subject to ongoing removal proceedings. His lawyers have requested that any release from pretrial detention be delayed by 30 days to prevent immediate transfer to immigration authorities, a move agreed to by both the government and defense. The Justice Department does not oppose the delay, which will not affect preparations for his January 2026 trial. Federal judges in Tennessee and Maryland are involved in rulings on his custody and potential removal. The case has gained national attention due to its complexity and the risk of further deportation actions amid ongoing debates over Trump-era immigration policies.