Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, appeared in a Tennessee courtroom on June 6, 2025, after being returned to the United States following a mistaken deportation by the Trump administration. Abrego Garcia is facing criminal charges for allegedly participating in a conspiracy to transport undocumented migrants within the U.S. The deportation occurred despite a 2019 court order that prohibited his removal due to fears of persecution in El Salvador.

The indictment against Abrego Garcia alleges that he was involved in a long-term operation that transported undocumented migrants from Texas to various locations in the U.S., reportedly involving over 100 trips. The charges include serious allegations, including claims of involvement in violent acts in El Salvador, although these claims were not included in the indictment.

During his initial court appearance, Abrego Garcia acknowledged understanding the charges against him. A hearing is scheduled for June 13, where the court will address the government's request to detain him pre-trial, citing concerns about community safety and flight risk. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 10 years in prison for each individual transported.

Abrego Garcia's attorney has characterized the charges as an abuse of power, suggesting that the government is attempting to deflect responsibility for the wrongful deportation. The attorney emphasized the importance of due process rights, arguing that the case highlights broader issues regarding governmental authority and individual rights.

The case has drawn attention to the actions of the Trump administration, which has been criticized for its handling of immigration policies and enforcement. Attorney General Pam Bondi acknowledged the cooperation of the Salvadoran government in facilitating Abrego Garcia's return, framing the indictment as a necessary step in addressing alleged human smuggling operations.

Abrego Garcia's deportation to El Salvador had been contested in court, with a federal judge ordering his return after the administration's acknowledgment of the error. The Supreme Court upheld this ruling, emphasizing the need for adherence to judicial orders.

The investigation into Abrego Garcia's activities began following a 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee, where he was initially not charged despite suspicions raised by law enforcement. The subsequent scrutiny of his case has raised questions about the motivations behind the charges and the implications for immigrant rights and due process in the U.S. legal system.