Federal judge rules ICE can’t take Kilmar Abrego Garcia back into custody

By: Ariana Figueroa

Outlets: DC Bureau (States Newsroom)

Published: February 17, 2026

Words: 397

Last Updated: 1 week ago

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WASHINGTON — A federal judge in Maryland Tuesday barred U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from re-detaining Kilmar Abrego Garcia, saying the Trump administration lacks plans to remove him from the United States.

“Respondents have done nothing to show that Abrego Garcia’s continued detention in ICE custody is consistent with due process,” District of Maryland Judge Paula Xinis wrote in her order.

Tuesday’s order solidifies a temporary decision from Xinis last year that blocked immigration officials …

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