A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to immediately return a Mexican man deported despite his proven risk of torture. The man, referred to as John Doe, assisted U.S. authorities against cartels, putting his life at significant risk. Judge Stephanie Gallagher in Maryland ruled that revoking his protections violated due process rights.

The administration relied on diplomatic assurances from Mexico, deemed reliable by acting ICE head David Venturella and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, the court found this exceeded lawful authority. The ruling highlights legal challenges to President Trump’s deportation campaign, emphasizing the public interest in protecting witnesses who assist the government.

Immigration attorney Anna Tijerina stated her client remains abroad and has not yet been returned. She argued that deporting him without meaningful opportunity to challenge the termination violates his rights. The order detailed multiple removal attempts, including a failed transit through Guatemala before direct deportation to Mexico, which initially refused entry.

An immigration judge had previously granted him a deferral under the Convention Against Torture two years ago. After detention in Louisiana, he was sent to Guatemala in July but rejected. Following consular intervention, he was briefly returned to the U.S. before being served with a termination notice. Ms. Tijerina noted he does not recall receiving it.