In brief
Senator Susan Collins announced that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has stopped its enhanced operations in Maine, which included over 100 arrests in a recent sweep termed 'Catch of the Day.' Following direct communications with Homeland Security, Collins confirmed that no further large-scale operations are planned. The move was in response to growing concerns over community safety and the impacts of the aggressive enforcement tactic.
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine stated that immigration officials have halted their 'enhanced operations' in the state after a recent surge in enforcement and numerous arrests. The announcement follows several communications with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, where Collins urged reconsideration of ICE's approach in the state.Collins mentioned, 'There are currently no ongoing or planned large-scale ICE operations here.' This news comes as President Donald Trump indicated a possible easing of tensions after a deadly incident involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. Collins affirmed that ICE and border patrol will maintain normal operations that have been in place for years.The statement arrives after ICE's recent operation, 'Catch of the Day,' which resulted in around 50 arrests on the first day and targeted approximately 1,400 individuals in a state with a predominantly rural population of 1.4 million, where only 4% are foreign-born.By late last week, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at Homeland Security, noted that some of the 100 arrests included individuals with serious criminal pasts, such as aggravated assault and child endangerment. The quick surge of enforcement sparked outrage in local communities, and Democratic Governor Janet Mills has called for more transparency regarding ICE's actions, demanding judicial warrants and information on detainees.Collins, currently up for reelection, faces competition from Mills, who announced her candidacy last October and has been critical of the funding and tactics used by ICE. Mills' office had not immediately responded to inquiries regarding Collins' announcement, and while the senator has largely refrained from criticizing ICE, she pointed out the need for better protocols such as body cameras and de-escalation training for ICE personnel.
