A federal judge dismisses a criminal case against Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland man accused of human smuggling, ruling that the prosecution is vindictive. Multiple outlets report that the judge’s decision centers on the timeline and context of the government’s actions, finding that the investigation and charges follow prior rulings over García’s deportation status. The case stems from a high-profile dispute in which García is ordered returned to the United States after courts determine he was removed improperly to El Salvador. One report says a Maryland judge and later the U.S. Supreme Court required his return following his summary removal. Another outlet describes the same overall sequence: García is charged after the legal fight, with the judge concluding that the timing and circumstances indicate political or retaliatory motives rather than a straightforward enforcement decision. As a result, the federal court throws out the criminal case. The reports do not indicate a final appellate outcome or new prosecution at this stage.