PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. – A Guatemalan national, Rene Pop-Chub, 32, has been charged with murder after allegedly causing the death of his older brother during a physical altercation in August 2024. The incident occurred in the 500 block of Shady Glen Drive, where Prince George’s County Police responded to reports of a fight around 11:30 p.m.
According to investigators, Pop-Chub pushed his 45-year-old brother, Crisantos Pop-Chub, during an argument, causing him to fall and suffer a fatal head injury. He was charged with murder, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment.
ICE officials revealed that Pop-Chub had previously been deported twice—first in Falfurrias, Texas in 2013, and again in Cowlic, Arizona in 2017—but illegally reentered the U.S. on an unknown date.
Following his arrest by Prince George’s County Police on Aug. 19, 2024, ICE Baltimore filed a detainer request on Oct. 9, asking the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections (PGCDC) to hold him for immigration enforcement. However, PGCDC released Pop-Chub from custody on April 8, 2025, citing county policy that limits cooperation with ICE.
ICE rearrested Pop-Chub in Hyattsville on April 12 and issued a notice of intent to reinstate a prior order of removal. He is now in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, pending immigration proceedings.
Court documents state Pop-Chub’s next court hearing was scheduled for April 16, to determine if he would remain detained ahead of a bail hearing.
Local Policy & Controversy:
Prince George’s County has long maintained sanctuary policies, limiting cooperation with ICE unless a criminal warrant is involved. These policies were formalized in 2019 when the County Council voted to restrict agency collaboration with ICE.
County officials assert they followed proper procedure. A spokesperson stated that ICE was present at the time of release and had communicated with jail staff, but the agent left before Pop-Chub was released.
“We remain committed to public safety while protecting the constitutional rights of all individuals in our custody,” said a PGCDC statement.
Critics argue that the release of Pop-Chub—despite serious charges—underscores the risks of sanctuary policies. ICE officials condemned the county’s decision, calling it part of a “pattern of dangerous non-cooperation.”
Political Reactions:
The case has reignited debate around immigration enforcement. Several local and state leaders, including Senator Angela Alsobrooks and Del. Nicole Williams, have supported limiting ICE collaboration to build trust in immigrant communities.
In contrast, opponents argue that non-cooperation policies undermine public safety and endanger citizens by allowing violent offenders to be released.
