Operation Catch of the Day Targets Violent Offenders in Maine
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has initiated “Operation Catch of the Day” aimed at apprehending undocumented immigrants in Maine who have committed violent crimes. This effort is part of a larger crackdown that President Trump and the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have called for.
The operation began on Tuesday and is particularly focused on individuals with convictions related to violent acts, as well as offenses that threaten public safety and child welfare.
On the first day, ICE made over 50 arrests, and Deputy Assistant Director Patricia Hyde mentioned that there’s a target list of approximately 1,400 individuals across Maine.
The DHS indicated that the operation prioritizes those deemed the most dangerous. This includes undocumented immigrants who have been convicted of serious crimes like aggravated assault and child endangerment.
DHS believes this operation is necessary, especially given ongoing conflicts with Maine officials over cooperation on immigration enforcement. The administration has been increasing pressure on places it feels are not adequately addressing issues with criminal undocumented immigrants.
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of DHS, criticized Governor Mills and other state officials for allegedly siding with undocumented individuals rather than protecting law-abiding citizens. She described the aim of Operation Catch of the Day as targeting the “worst of the worst.”
On the initial day of the operation, one significant arrest involved an undocumented individual who had convictions for aggravated assault and child endangerment. The operation has also detained various criminals, including those with serious offenses like assault and drug possession.
Notably, there’s been a growing national effort to handle illegal immigration more stringently, which was a central aspect of Trump’s campaign promises. Among those arrested were individuals like Dominic Ali from Sudan and Anbessa Barge from Ethiopia, both with serious criminal records.
Mark Dion, the mayor of Portland, voiced opposing concerns regarding ICE’s presence in the city. He noted that the community is anxious about increasing federal enforcement, stating there’s no evidence to support the need for a heightened ICE visibility in local neighborhoods. Dion emphasized that local police do not engage with ICE regarding immigration law enforcement.
