Journalist Mario Guevara deported to El Salvador, CPJ says

Journalist Mario Guevara was deported from the United States to El Salvador, a move condemned by press freedom advocates as retaliation for his reporting. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) confirmed that this marks the first documented U. S. deportation linked to such circumstances. Guevara, an Emmy Award-winning journalist, had been detained for over 100 days following his arrest during a protest last June, where he faced misdemeanor charges that were ultimately dismissed.

His deportation was executed after the 11th U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied an emergency stay of removal. Attorney Giovanni Diaz stated that the family was prepared for this outcome but found it devastating, as Guevara had legal permission to stay and was eligible for a green card. CPJ labeled the deportation "shameful," asserting that it highlights deteriorating press freedoms under the Trump administration.

Diaz argued that Guevara was targeted for his reporting and that the immigration courts have been weaponized against journalists. This incident raises significant concerns about the treatment of reporters and the integrity of the immigration system.