Topline
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man mistakenly deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration early this year, was released from custody in Tennessee on Friday, according to multiple outlets, heading back to his home in Maryland as he awaits trial on human smuggling charges.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, center, leaves the Putnam County Jail, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Cookeville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
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Key Facts
Abrego Garcia is on his way to reunite with his family in Maryland for the first time since his deportation in March, Fox 17 reported.
Abrego Garcia’s attorneys recently said he would be transported by a private security firm with “experience providing court-approved pre-trial transportation and security services in criminal cases.”
The Maryland man is awaiting a Jan. 27 trial on human smuggling charges that he has pleaded not guilty to.
Abrego Garcia is “grateful that his access to American courts has provided meaningful due process,” according to a statement from lawyer Sean Hecker reported by multiple outlets.
Forbes has reached out to Abrego Garcia’s attorneys for comment.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.