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A federal judge in Tennessee has ruled that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national facing criminal charges, has presented sufficient evidence to proceed with claims that his prosecution was “vindictive” and politically motivated by the Trump management.U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw granted Abrego Garcia’s request for discovery and an evidentiary hearing, citing public statements by senior officials that suggest a realistic likelihood of retaliation. The ruling applies to his Tennessee criminal case, where he is charged with conspiracy and unlawful transportation of undocumented immigrants, but dose not affect his ongoing immigration proceedings.<\/p>\n

Abrego Garcia illegally entered the U.S. in 2012, was deported in violation of a court order, and reentered the country following a Supreme Court ruling. On his return day, he was indicted on human smuggling charges tied<\/a> to a 2022 traffic stop. Federal prosecutors allege he is involved in violent crime, gang activity, and othre serious offenses, while his attorneys argue the prosecution is retaliation for his legal fight against deportation. Abrego Garcia remains in ICE custody pending the resolution of both his immigration and criminal cases.

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