Mario Guevara, an Atlanta-based journalist for MG News, is expected to be deported to El Salvador on Friday morning after a federal appeals court denied his request to remain in the United States. Guevara’s legal team continues to fight for his release, despite a 13-year-old removal order that has been revived by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
What Happened
Guevara, a Spanish-language journalist, was arrested on June 14, 2025, while covering the “No Kings” protest in DeKalb County. He was initially charged with walking in a roadway and obstructing police officers, but those charges were later dropped. However, additional charges related to reckless driving, failure to obey a traffic control device, and unlawful use of a device while driving in a separate case in Gwinnett County remained pending.
In the wake of his arrest, Guevara’s detention was transferred from Gwinnett County to ICE custody, and he was later held at an ICE facility in Louisiana. Despite the dismissal of all criminal charges, ICE revived a 13-year-old removal order against Guevara, citing it as the reason for his deportation.
Legal Battle and Deportation Timeline
Guevara’s attorney, Giovanni Diaz, has expressed frustration over the legal process, stating, “We’re confident the law is on our side, but what we’re not so confident in anymore is that we can get objective decisions from the Board of Immigration.” Guevara’s family and legal team argue that his deportation is a retaliatory action for his investigative journalism, which often reported on law enforcement and immigration.
On October 2, the Court of Appeals denied Guevara’s request to stay in the U.S., and he is now scheduled for deportation to El Salvador on October 3 at 11 a.m. Guevara’s son shared the news on social media, expressing his distress over the situation.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The case has sparked widespread concern, with Guevara’s supporters claiming that his deportation is unjust, especially after the charges against him were dropped. Many of his colleagues, including those from the Spanish-language media community, have rallied around Guevara, viewing his case as a violation of journalistic freedoms.
His news outlet, MG News, posted on Facebook on July 3 to inform the public of his situation, asking for continued support as Guevara’s legal team battles for his release.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has not commented on the allegations that the deportation is retaliation for Guevara’s work. However, Guevara’s legal team continues to challenge the decision, and his attorney has expressed hopes that further legal actions could prevent his deportation.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as Guevara’s deportation takes place and his legal team pursues further avenues for his release.
