Deportee Patrick Rhys appeals for help in Belize—But hides past murder conviction in the U.S.

Published by [email protected] at June 21, 2025

Posted: Saturday, June 21, 2025. 12:32 pm CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Patrick Rhys, a 60-year-old deportee recently returned to Belize after decades in the United States, is seeking public assistance to rebuild his life. But while his story highlights the struggles of returning to a homeland he barely remembers, one critical fact is often left unsaid: Rhys was convicted of killing his girlfriend in Maryland and deported after serving a 23-year sentence.

According to U.S. court records, Rhys, originally from Glen Burnie, Maryland, pleaded guilty in 2011 to second-degree murder in the death of 49-year-old Gloria Tongue. The killing occurred on New Year’s Day in 2010. Prosecutors stated that Rhys and Tongue got into a heated argument after she threatened to leave him and take their 8-year-old daughter. Rhys then stabbed her 27 times while the child was asleep in a nearby bedroom.

He was sentenced to 23 years in prison.

After serving his time, Rhys was transferred to an ICE detention facility where he reportedly broke his hip and faced medical complications before being deported to Belize. Upon arrival, he was given two pairs of pants, two shirts, and $200 USD. He claims he has no immediate family support and has struggled to find shelter and basic necessities.

In recent days, Rhys has appeared in local interviews appealing for assistance from the Belizean public. “I need clothes… I need materials to build a place… I need everything you can give me,” he said.

However, critics point out that Rhys has not been forthcoming about the full extent of his criminal past, particularly the brutal nature of the crime for which he was convicted. While his need may be real, there are concerns that the public is not being presented with the complete picture.

BBN will continue to follow this story.

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