Body camera footage obtained by ABC News reveals the 2022 traffic stop of Kilmar Abrego Garcia on Interstate 40 in Tennessee—an event that’s now part of the broader controversy surrounding his wrongful deportation to El Salvador.
Pulled Over But Not Arrested
The video shows Tennessee state troopers questioning Abrego Garcia on the roadside at night. He was stopped for driving 75 mph in a 65 zone and cited for having an expired driver’s license. He was not arrested, and no illegal activity was found after a K-9 search. Troopers eventually let him go.
Claims of Human Trafficking Disputed
The Department of Homeland Security later referenced this stop in an April press release, calling it part of a “bombshell” investigation and labeling Abrego Garcia a suspected human trafficker. But his wife, Jennifer Vasquez, said he worked in construction and often transported workers, calling the claim unfounded.
Confusion Over the Date
DHS listed the stop as happening on December 1, 2022, but Tennessee Highway Patrol records show it occurred on November 30, near Cookeville, about 80 miles from Nashville.
From Traffic Stop to Deportation
This traffic stop was separate from the March 2024 encounter with federal agents in Maryland that led to Abrego Garcia’s deportation. Despite a 2019 court order prohibiting his removal due to fears of persecution, he was sent to El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison after being accused—without charges—of MS-13 gang ties, which his family and legal team strongly deny.
Supreme Court Rules for Return
A federal judge and the U.S. Supreme Court have since ruled that the U.S. government must facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return. The Biden administration acknowledged the deportation was in error, though former Trump officials argue his alleged gang ties disqualify him from returning.
Ongoing Legal and Political Fallout
The case has sparked diplomatic tension, with reports that Senator Marco Rubio has spoken to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele about Garcia’s situation. Meanwhile, Abrego Garcia remains in legal limbo, as advocates push for accountability and his safe return.
Keep up with Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation with us on Que Onda Magazine.