Venezuelan Migrant Caught in Legal Limbo After Unexpected Deportation
BALTIMORE (AP) — A Venezuelan migrant, identified only as Cristian, is at the center of a legal crisis after being deported to Venezuela instead of being returned to the U.S. as ordered by a federal judge. This surprising move, part of a controversial prisoner exchange with El Salvador, has left his legal team unable to locate him. Cristian and other participants had come to the U.S. seeking asylum, protected under a 2019 agreement that prevents deportation pending their claims.
U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher criticized the government’s handling of Cristian’s case, emphasizing that he was sent back to the country from which he sought refuge. This exchange was part of an arrangement where El Salvador received $6 million to host Venezuelan migrants while the Trump administration aimed to deport alleged gang members.
Christian’s lawyer, Kevin DeJong, expressed concern, stating that Cristian has become “a pawn” in the deal and now lacks guidance and support. Although the Justice Department insists they are adhering to court orders, they have yet to track Cristian’s current whereabouts. The judge has mandated weekly updates from the government as this fast-evolving situation unfolds.
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