Atlanta-based journalist Mario Guevara of 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 the decision despite a 13-year-old removal order that was recently revived by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
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Background: What Happened
Guevara, a Spanish-language journalist, was arrested on June 14, 2025, in DeKalb County while covering the “No Kings” protest. Initially charged with walking on a road and obstructing police officers, those allegations were later dropped. However, additional charges related to careless driving, failure to follow traffic control equipment, and illegal use of a device in a separate case in Gwinnett County remained unresolved.
Following his arrest, Guevara was transferred from Gwinnett County to ICE custody and later detained in Louisiana. Despite the dismissal of all criminal charges, ICE revived a 13-year-old removal order, citing it as justification for deportation.
Legal Battle and Timeline
Guevara’s attorney, Giyavani Diaz, expressed frustration over the legal process, stating:
“We are confident that the law is in our favor, but now we are not so confident that we can expect objective decisions from the immigration board.”
Guevara’s family and legal team claim that his deportation is linked to his investigative journalism, which frequently covered law enforcement and immigration issues.
On October 2, 2025, the Court of Appeals rejected Guevara’s request to remain in the United States. His deportation is scheduled for October 3, 2025, at 11 a.m., a fact shared by his son on social media, sparking public attention and debate.
Public and Media Reactions
Guevara’s case has drawn widespread concern. Supporters argue that deportation is unjust, particularly since all original allegations against him were dismissed. Fellow journalists, especially from the Spanish-language media community, have rallied in support, viewing the case as a potential violation of press freedom.
MG News released a statement on July 3, 2025, appealing for public support in advocating for Guevara’s release. Social media campaigns have amplified attention to the case.
What Happens Next
ICE has not responded to claims that Guevara’s deportation is retaliatory due to his journalism. Guevara’s legal team continues to seek remedies, with his lawyer expressing hope that further legal action may prevent deportation.
Conclusion: Press Freedom and Legal Challenges
The deportation of Mario Guevara raises serious questions about press freedom, immigration policy, and the fairness of legal proceedings in the United States. His case continues to draw national attention, and developments will be updated as they unfold.
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