Guatemalan National Convicted of Sex Crimes in Maryland Removed by ICE
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has removed a Guatemalan national convicted of multiple felony sex offenses, including rape and sexual abuse of a minor. The removal of Daniel Pineda-Velasquez marks the latest action by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) to deport noncitizens with serious criminal records in the United States.
Pineda-Velasquez was convicted in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, Maryland. His criminal record includes convictions for sex abuse of a minor, rape, third-degree sex offense, assault, and fourth-degree sexual contact. Following his convictions, federal authorities identified him as a priority for removal due to the severity of his crimes and his immigration status.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Pineda-Velasquez was highlighted in a recent operational update targeting public safety threats. Authorities confirmed that an immigration judge had ordered his removal in 2024. ICE officers with the Baltimore field office facilitated his custody and processing for repatriation to Guatemala.
“Our officers are targeting public safety threats,” said a DHS spokesperson regarding the recent sweep of arrests involving individuals convicted of heinous crimes. “If you come to our country illegally and break our laws, we will find you and arrest you.”
The case of Pineda-Velasquez was featured among several high-profile arrests and removals designated by DHS as “worst of the worst” offenders. This designation is often reserved for individuals convicted of violent crimes such as murder, rape, and domestic assault. ICE officials have reiterated that their enforcement strategy continues to prioritize the arrest and deportation of noncitizens who pose a clear danger to communities.
Pineda-Velasquez has been repatriated to Guatemala, barring him from legally re-entering the United States. Federal law imposes severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, for any individual who illegally re-enters the country after being formally deported, particularly following an aggravated felony conviction.
* dhs.gov
* thefederalist.com
