The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified Maine as the latest focus for its immigration enforcement actions. On Wednesday, the DHS announced the initiation of Operation Catch of the Day, aimed at targeting criminal illegal migrants within the state. A spokesperson for the DHS confirmed that this operation is part of a broader strategy to address issues related to crime and immigration.
During the rollout of this operation, Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin specifically mentioned Maine's Democratic Governor, Janet Mills, and fellow sanctuary city politicians as catalysts for the increased federal enforcement. McLaughlin stated, “We have launched Operation Catch of the Day to target the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens in the state.” On the very first day of this operation, DHS officials reported arrests of illegal aliens with serious criminal backgrounds, including convictions for aggravated assault, false imprisonment, and endangering the welfare of a child.
With the administration of President Trump and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the DHS is taking a firm stance against criminal illegal aliens, asserting that they will no longer be allowed to threaten the safety of American citizens. While the exact duration of the operation in Maine remains uncertain, there are questions about whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will maintain a long-term presence in the state or if agents currently based in Minneapolis will transition to Maine.
Governor Mills, who has previously clashed with President Trump over immigration policies, is currently campaigning for a seat in the U.S. Senate. In a statement made on Monday, Andrew Benson, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maine, acknowledged the public's right to protest but emphasized that such demonstrations must remain peaceful. Benson indicated that any violent actions against federal law enforcement would lead to prosecution. He stated, "Anyone who forcibly assaults or impedes a federal law enforcement officer... commits a federal crime and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
Although there has been no immediate response from Governor Mills regarding the ICE operation in Maine, she has publicly expressed her concerns about the lack of transparency from the federal government. In a video statement released on January 14, Mills mentioned that her administration had made efforts to gather information about the planned enforcement actions. She stated that Maine is proactively preparing for the potential immigration crackdown by coordinating with local law enforcement agencies and city officials in major cities like Portland and Lewiston.
Mills emphasized her administration's commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of Maine residents during any federal operations. She stated, “Maine knows what good law enforcement looks like,” highlighting the professionalism and accountability of local law enforcement. Mills also criticized the tactics used by federal agents, asserting that they do not represent the values of Maine.
In a strong statement made on Wednesday, Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline condemned the actions of ICE, describing them as “terror and intimidation tactics.” Sheline expressed concern that such actions are detrimental to the community, stating, “These masked men with no regard for the rule of law are causing long-term damage to our state and to our country.” He reaffirmed Lewiston’s commitment to the dignity and welfare of all residents, declaring, “We will never stop caring for our neighbors.”
As the situation in Maine develops, both state and federal officials will continue to navigate the complex dynamics surrounding immigration enforcement and community safety.