U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently apprehended a Guatemalan immigrant in Maryland facing serious weapons charges. The individual, 20-year-old Gener Pop-Cuz, was arrested on February 1st in Prince George’s County, Maryland, after local corrections officials reportedly declined to honor an ICE detainer request. According to an ICE statement, Pop-Cuz was released into the facility's lobby instead of being transferred to ICE custody. He resisted arrest but was eventually apprehended.

Pop-Cuz's history with immigration authorities dates back to November 2017 when he was stopped by U.S. Border Patrol near Texas’ Rio Grande Valley and issued a notice to appear in court. Five years later, an immigration judge ordered his removal to Guatemala after he failed to appear for his hearing. The recent arrest stemmed from charges filed by the Laurel Police Department, including possession of a loaded handgun, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a firearm, and trespassing on private property. He was released on bond by Prince George’s County, at which point ICE issued the detainer.

Matthew Elliston, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Baltimore, emphasized the importance of cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE to ensure public safety. He expressed concern over jurisdictions failing to transfer custody of individuals with violent criminal charges and encouraged a review of these policies.