As the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) initiate “Operation Catch of the Day” in Maine, local leaders are urging residents to refrain from interfering with federal law enforcement activities. The operation, which began on March 5, 2024, aims to apprehend around 1,400 suspects across the state.
State Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham, a Republican from Winter Harbor, expressed his support for the operation in a Facebook post, encouraging the public to remain calm and allow ICE agents to perform their duties. “Folks, calm down about all this ICE stuff. They are doing their jobs. These men and women are professionals,” Faulkingham stated.
On March 6, 2024, the Brewer Police Department responded to an incident at a local school where community members mistakenly believed officers were associated with ICE. This misunderstanding disrupted police operations related to a swatting investigation, prompting Faulkingham to emphasize the importance of not obstructing law enforcement. He noted that interference could create dangerous situations for both officers and the public.
Brewer police confirmed that the incident posed a “real risk” to the investigation team. Faulkingham reported that during the first day of the operation, approximately 50 individuals were taken into custody. As the week progressed, the number of arrests was expected to rise.
Local and National Responses
In a news conference, Mark Dion, the Democratic Mayor of Portland, acknowledged the community’s right to protest while also urging respect for law enforcement. He stated, “I will remind the public to allow officers to do their work. Do not obstruct.” Dion highlighted the importance of being a responsible witness in case future investigations arise, reiterating that if officers are operating with a warrant, they are acting within legal bounds.
The sentiment of supporting law enforcement was echoed by the National Police Association. Spokesperson Betsy Branter Smith criticized those opposing ICE operations, stating that such actions could jeopardize the safety of communities and law enforcement personnel. She also condemned Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellow for pausing undercover license plate requests for ICE agents, calling it “irresponsible” for the state to not cooperate with federal operations.
Further criticism came from ICE Deputy Assistant Director Patricia Hyde, who expressed concern over local officials’ reluctance to collaborate with federal law enforcement. “We have approximately 1,400 targets here in Maine, ranging from rape of a child to drug trafficking,” Hyde explained. She added that the lack of communication between local and federal law enforcement poses risks to community safety.
Broader Context of Enforcement Actions
This enforcement action in Maine aligns with the broader initiatives of the Trump administration, which has focused on increasing the apprehension of individuals living in the country illegally, particularly those with prior criminal records. Such measures have intensified in areas identified as “sanctuary cities” and states that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
As Operation Catch of the Day continues, leaders from both sides of the political spectrum emphasize the need for safety and cooperation in these challenging times. The ongoing dialogue reflects the complex relationship between local communities, federal law enforcement, and the immigrant population, underscoring the necessity for clear communication and understanding.
