Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal judge overseeing the case of a man erroneously deported by the U.S. government to a prison in El Salvador is considering potential contempt actions against the Trump administration. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis requested administration officials to provide evidence of their attempts in repatriating Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the U.S. since her initial order, stating that no progress has been shown so far.

Abrego Garcia’s attorneys have pushed for the administration to be held in contempt for its lack of action. Judge Xinis emphasized the need to review the evidence submitted by the administration, which is anticipated to include sworn statements, before making a decision on the matter.

Officials from the administration, represented by Drew Ensign of the Justice Department, contended that they had followed the judge’s directives. Ensign also mentioned that if Abrego Garcia were to appear at a port of entry, they would facilitate his return to the U.S. prior to detaining him.

The deportation of Abrego Garcia to El Salvador occurred on March 15, where he was sent to a notorious prison despite an immigration judge’s previous order prohibiting his return to his home country. The government attributes this action to an “administrative error.”

Xinis had previously instructed the administration to bring Abrego Garcia back to the U.S., where he could receive a fair legal process. President Donald Trump’s recent meeting with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador brought attention to the issue, with Bukele stating that Abrego Garcia would not be returned to the U.S., dismissing the idea as absurd.

Questions arose when U.S. officials present at the meeting did not publicly request Abrego Garcia’s repatriation, a fact highlighted by Judge Xinis during the proceedings. She also noted that administration representatives evaded inquiries regarding the measures taken to secure Abrego Garcia’s return.

Stephen Miller, a senior White House adviser, denied any errors in Abrego Garcia’s deportation, claiming legal grounds due to his alleged affiliation with the gang MS-13. Lawyers for Abrego Garcia refute the gang membership allegations, with Xinis questioning the validity of the evidence used to make that determination. The White House stands by its claims without providing concrete evidence to substantiate them.

Amidst these legal battles and political disputes, Abrego Garcia’s wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, offered words of encouragement to her husband during the hearings, expressing hope for his safe return. As the case continues to unfold, the fate of Abrego Garcia remains uncertain, with legal proceedings and diplomatic relations at the forefront.