U.S. immigration officials said they intend to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Uganda, according to a Saturday court filing, after he declined an offer to be sent to Costa Rica in exchange for remaining in jail and pleading guilty to human smuggling charges.

Release From Jail

The offer came late Thursday, just before Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, was due to be released from a Tennessee jail. He chose not to stay in custody and was freed Friday to await trial in Maryland with his family. Hours later, the Department of Homeland Security told his attorneys he should report to immigration authorities Monday to face deportation to Uganda.

Case Background

Abrego Garcia’s case drew national attention during President Trump’s immigration crackdown. In March, he was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, then returned to the U.S. in June under a court order. He was later charged with human smuggling, charges he denies.

His attorneys argue the case is retaliation for challenging his wrongful deportation, and they have asked a judge to dismiss it.

Claims of Vindictive Prosecution

In their Saturday filing, his lawyers said the threat of deportation to Uganda shows the government is punishing him.

“The government immediately responded to Mr. Abrego’s release with outrage,” the filing states, adding that within minutes of his release, ICE notified his attorneys of the Uganda plan.

What’s Next

Abrego Garcia has pleaded not guilty and remains free under court supervision in Maryland. A recent ruling requires immigration officials to give him time to mount a defense, even as deportation threats continue.

For more on Garcia’s case, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.