The ACLU of Maine is demanding more information about federal operations in Maine, and how local law enforcement are helping to carry out this cruel agenda.

ICE and CBP often use state and local law enforcement resources to arrest and detain immigrants. This includes renting beds in facilities like jails and prisons and formally or informally partnering with local law enforcement to help put people into federal custody.

When Maine agencies assume federal responsibilities in this way, they risk violating the constitutional rights of people who live and work here. These partnerships are also costly, diverting local staff time and resources to federal priorities with little or no reimbursement.

These collaborations sow fear in immigrant communities and erode trust between neighbors and local officials, ultimately making all of us less safe. Mainers deserve to know whether, and how, their public institutions are participating in immigration enforcement.