WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A Mexican man who was deported while awaiting trial here will return to court Friday. And this time, prosecutors hope to prevent him from being deported too soon.

Prosecutors say their case against Lopez-Morales highlights problems that arise when immigrants who are illegally living in the U.S. are granted bail in criminal cases.

 

The 41-year-old was indicted on a felony charge of illegal re-entry last year. His attorney convinced the court to release him on bond despite vehement objections by prosecutors, who warned the move would lead to deportation.

After posting bond, Lopez-Morales was transferred into the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and removed because of an outstanding deportation order.

He was arrested on a similar charge in July. A detention hearing in the case is scheduled Friday.