Despite pushback from the Democratic governor, federal immigration agents, assisted by local police, conducted searches throughout Maine.
ICE, along with other federal immigration authorities, initiated “Operation Catch of the Day” early Wednesday morning, executing organized raids in various counties across the state. The operation proceeded without major protests or disturbances, as local police backed the federal efforts.
The Democratic governor of Maine, Janet Mills, has consistently voiced her opposition, urging state law enforcement to refrain from assisting ICE in apprehensions. Last December, she even signed a law preventing police from collaborating with federal agents, although it hasn’t been put into effect yet.
Assistant Secretary of State Tricia McLaughlin criticized the governor and local politicians, stating they seem to prioritize the rights of undocumented criminals over the safety of law-abiding citizens. In a statement released on Wednesday, she asserted, “We launched Operation Catch of the Day to focus on the most dangerous criminal illegal aliens in our state. On the very first day, we apprehended individuals with serious convictions, including aggravated assault and child endangerment. Under the current administration, we will not allow these criminal elements to intimidate American citizens.”
Reports indicated that some activist groups were caught off guard by the swift execution of the operation. Meanwhile, certain Democratic politicians in Maine expressed their discontent with the raids.
Democratic U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree condemned the actions of federal enforcement and pledged to hold them accountable for any unlawful behavior. “I stand firmly with our immigrant community and the people of Maine. We will not tolerate ICE or any federal agency attempting to terrorize our neighborhoods and unlawfully detain our neighbors,” she emphasized.
Conversely, U.S. Attorney Andrew Benson pointed out that activists don’t have the right to obstruct federal activities. While acknowledging the right to protest, he warned against any violent or disruptive behavior. “Maine residents should exercise their right to peaceful assembly. Actions like obstructing federal officers or causing destruction of property will result in prosecution,” he stated.
Benson further cautioned public figures against inciting unrest, saying that, “Those in positions of influence should promote peaceful protests; divisive rhetoric only increases tensions and the likelihood of violence.”
By early Wednesday, ICE reported that over 50 high-priority illegal offenders had been arrested. The Department of Homeland Security specified that among those detained were individuals like Dominic Ali, a kidnapper from Sudan, Anbessa Berge, wanted for assault and drug offenses, and Danny Lopez Coltz, convicted of drunk driving.
