The Trump administration is attempting to dismiss serious federal charges against Vladimir Antonio Arevalo-Chavez, a high-ranking MS-13 leader, in favor of deporting him to El Salvador—a move his defense team claims is designed to prevent testimony about Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele’s past dealings with the notorious gang.
Court documents unsealed Thursday reveal prosecutors cited “geopolitical and national security concerns” in their April 1 filing seeking dismissal of terrorism and racketeering charges. This follows a similar case in March when charges against another MS-13 leader, Cesar Humberto López-Larios, were quietly dropped before his deportation.
Both men reportedly have detailed knowledge of a secret 2019 pact between Bukele’s administration and MS-13 leadership. According to Justice Department records, this agreement involved government concessions to the gang in exchange for reduced violence and political support for Bukele’s party.
The deportation efforts come amid improved relations between the Trump administration and El Salvador, including a controversial agreement allowing the US to incarcerate immigrants in the Salvadoran prison system. CNN reported in April that Bukele specifically requested nine top MS-13 leaders be returned to El Salvador.
A judge has temporarily blocked Arevalo-Chavez’s transfer to immigration custody, as his attorneys seek more information about the reasons behind the dismissal.