PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced on Thursday that the enhanced operations by immigration officials in Maine have ended. These operations have led to more than 100 arrests since their inception last week.
After discussions with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Collins reported that there are currently no large-scale ICE operations being planned or ongoing in the state. She has been advocating for a reconsideration of ICE's approach to enforcing immigration laws in Maine.
The confirmation came on the heels of a surge in ICE activities, which included an enforcement operation named ‘Catch of the Day,’ during which approximately 50 arrests were made on the first day, with around 1,400 individuals identified as operational targets. Maine's population stands at approximately 1.4 million, with nearly 4% being foreign-born residents.
Additionally, Collins noted that ICE and border patrol officials would continue with their usual operations, which have been conducted for many years without the heightened intensity seen recently.
The announcement coincides with broader discussions sparked by a deadly shooting by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, indicating a shifting stance from the federal government towards more balanced measures in response to pressures surrounding immigration policies.
While Secretary of Homeland Security acknowledged that some of those arrested were involved in severe crimes, including aggravated assault and child endangerment, these actions have stirred concern within the communities facing increased scrutiny and enforcement. Collins, facing reelection, has navigated this complex landscape while maintaining that individuals in the country legally should not be targeted by ICE.
Governor Janet Mills has been vocal about her opposition to these tactics, demanding more accountability from ICE, including requests for judicial warrants and real-time arrest statistics. She has also confronted Collins regarding her support for the funding and operational limits of ICE.
As of now, Collins continues to express the need for accountability and transparency from ICE while emphasizing the importance of conducting enforcement actions that respect the rights of all residents.
