Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an alleged member of the MS-13 gang and facing human smuggling charges, might be deported to Uganda, according to his legal team. The Departments of Justice and Homeland Security reportedly informed his attorneys that if he does not accept a plea deal by Monday, they will begin the process to send him to Uganda. If he agrees to the deal, he could be deported to Costa Rica instead.
Garcia’s team claims this is a form of coercion from the Trump administration. However, a spokesperson for the DOJ argues that they are trying to keep Garcia, described as a “clear danger,” away from law-abiding citizens and hold him accountable for his actions. The DOJ emphasized that a federal grand jury has charged him with serious crimes, highlighting the risk he poses to the community.
The controversy around Garcia began after he was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, where he reportedly faces threats from gang members. This situation drew support from some Democratic politicians and media outlets, who portrayed him as a victim of wrongful deportation. Yet, further investigation revealed allegations of gang connections, sexual misconduct, and involvement in a smuggling operation.
The case against Garcia stems from a traffic stop in Putnam County, Tennessee, on November 30, 2022. He was stopped while driving a Chevrolet Suburban with nine other individuals, including a 15-year-old boy who has since gone missing. Authorities have identified several passengers as illegal immigrants from various countries, including Mexico and Honduras.
Garcia has been released from jail and is currently waiting for his trial in Maryland. He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years and fines totaling $250,000 for conspiracy to transport aliens, along with additional penalties for each individual he allegedly smuggled into the country.
The DOJ has not confirmed whether Garcia will indeed be deported to Uganda, leaving many questions about his future and the ongoing legal proceedings.
