Kilmar Abrego Garcia endured severe mistreatment during his detention at El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison, according to a new legal filing by his attorneys. They describe beatings, psychological abuse, and inhumane living conditions.
Claims of Torture and Deprivation
In a court filing Wednesday, Abrego Garcia’s lawyers detailed how he was allegedly beaten, deprived of food, and forced to kneel for hours. They say he was stripped, issued prison clothes under duress, and confined in overcrowded cells with bright lights kept on constantly.
Detention Despite Court Order
Abrego Garcia was sent to El Salvador in March despite a 2019 U.S. court order barring his deportation due to fears of persecution. The Trump administration had previously labeled him an MS-13 gang member, a claim he denies.
Upon arrival at CECOT, prison officials reportedly told detainees, “Whoever enters here doesn’t leave.” According to his attorneys, Salvadoran officials later recognized he was not gang-affiliated and separated him from other prisoners.
Health Decline and Continued Legal Fight
During his first two weeks at CECOT, Abrego Garcia allegedly lost 31 pounds. He was later moved to a Santa Ana prison, where his lawyers say he was often hidden from visitors.
Now back in the U.S., Abrego Garcia faces human smuggling charges in Tennessee, where he has pleaded not guilty. Federal prosecutors are seeking his deportation to a third country if he is released on bail.
Lawyers Seek to Block Deportation
Abrego Garcia’s attorneys have asked a Maryland judge to block his deportation without proper notice. They warn he could face persecution or torture in countries like Libya, South Sudan, or Eritrea.
“Without knowing the destination, Mr. Abrego Garcia cannot prepare a defense against removal,” his lawyers argued.
For more on Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.