ABC News Daily Why Trump’s found an ally in El Salvador’s ‘dictator’
Apr 23, 2025
Joining the discussion is Catalina Florez, an SBS Dateline reporter known for her insightful coverage of El Salvador. She reveals the disturbing story of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man wrongfully deported to a notorious prison. The conversation explores how Trump's alliance with El Salvador's self-styled 'dictator' raises serious human rights questions. Florez paints a vivid picture of the harsh prison conditions while uncovering the political implications of their shared hardline immigration views.
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Kilmar's Journey to the US
- Kilmar Abrego Garcia entered the US illegally at 16 due to gang threats in El Salvador.
- He married a US citizen, had a child, and lived in Maryland before being detained.
Arrest and Court Ruling
- Kilmar was arrested in 2019 for alleged gang membership based on superficial evidence.
- An immigration judge ruled he couldn't be deported due to fears of persecution if returned.
Disputed Deportation and Imprisonment
- Despite the court ruling, Kilmar was arrested again on March 12 and deported to El Salvador.
- He was imprisoned in the high-security SICOT prison there, known for harsh conditions.