Undocumented MS-13 Gang Member Arrested By ICE In Hyattsville

HYATTSVILLE, MD — A 19-year-old MS-13 gang member from El Salvador recently was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Hyattsville.

According to ICE, Anderson Geovany Romero was apprehended after the Prince George’s Detention Center didn't honor an immigration detainer and released him from custody. Romero has pending criminal charges for possessing a loaded handgun and ammunition.

“MS-13’s designation as a terrorist organization highlights the grave threat it poses to public safety. The arrest of Romero sends a clear message: ICE is unwavering in its commitment to protecting our nation’s communities,” said ERO Baltimore Acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. “Removing egregious criminal aliens from our Maryland streets is a win for law-abiding residents and a critical step toward ensuring safer neighborhoods. I commend the relentless dedication of our officers in prioritizing public safety and upholding immigration law.”

The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Romero near Roma, Texas, on July 11, 2015, and served him with a notice to appear and, on the same date, transferred custody to ERO. The Ocean City Police Department in Maryland arrested and charged Romero July 5, 2021, for having an open container of alcohol. The District Court of Maryland for Worcester County convicted Romero for that offense Aug. 30, 2021. A Department of Justice immigration judge in Baltimore ordered Romero removed to El Salvador April 24, 2023, after he failed to show up for his immigration hearing. The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested and charged Romero with possession of a loaded handgun Jan. 21 and ERO Baltimore lodged an immigration detainer with the Prince George’s Detention Center on the same date, according to Elliston.