U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently announced the arrest of a 20-year-old Guatemalan illegal immigrant, Gener Pop-Cuz, in Maryland's Prince George's County. The arrest took place on February 1 after corrections officials declined to honor an immigration detainer.
According to ICE, Pop was initially stopped by the U.S. Border Patrol near Texas' Rio Grande Valley in November 2017 and was served a notice to appear in court. Subsequently, an immigration judge ordered his removal to Guatemala after he failed to appear for a hearing five years later.
Pop faced charges in Maryland related to possession of a loaded handgun, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a firearm, and trespassing on private property. Despite being released on bond by the Prince George's County Commissioner's Office on the same date, ICE lodged an immigration detainer on Pop with the local corrections department.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore acting Field Office Director, Matthew Elliston, emphasized the importance of cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE in ensuring the safety of officers, the public, and even the individuals in custody. Elliston urged local jurisdictions to review their policies and prioritize public safety over political considerations.
The incident involving Pop highlights the potential risks associated with failing to transfer custody of violent offenders between jurisdictions. ICE's efforts to enforce immigration laws and maintain public safety underscore the need for collaboration between federal and local authorities.
