ICE in Maine

The former leader of Maine CDC called federal agents' tactics when detaining residents "dehumanizing" and encouraged audience members to organize and document interactions with ICE.

ICE has provided little information about who it is arresting and why.

A new memo from Immigration and Customs Enforcement reportedly allows federal officers to forcibly enter a person's home to make arrest without a judicial warrant.

During a press conference in Portland Thursday, Mills said she takes allegations of criminal activity seriously.

At a time when immigrant communities are anxious about stepped-up ICE enforcement activity in the state, supporters turned out for a community dinner in Waterville Wednesday to welcome new Mainers. Organizers said some immigrants stayed away, but others felt a need to be present.

During a press conference Thursday, Joyce confirmed that ICE agents arrested a corrections officer recruit who he described as "squeaky clean."

On the second day of the federal operation, some local officials and residents are pushing back on ICE's tactics, while the Department of Homeland Security cites the arrest of several people with criminal convictions.

Republicans are accusing Gov. Janet Mills and other Democrats of inflammatory rhetoric that they say puts people at risk. Democrats reject such charges, however, and say they're focused on ensuring that civil rights are protected.

In a statement, U.S. Rep. Jared Golden of Maine's 2nd District, said he supported ICE operations as long as they were "focused on individuals who have engaged in criminal activities."

Penobscot Nation Chief Kirk Francis is encouraging tribal members to carry their tribal identification as Immigrations and Customs Enforcement activity increases in Maine this week.