Gov. Mills issues statement regarding speculation of ICE operations in Maine

(WABI) - Gov. Janet Mills issued a statement Wednesday acknowledging speculation the Federal government may conduct law enforcement operations in Maine in the coming days.

Mills said her administration has attempted to confirm with Federal officials whether any operations are in the works, but they have not received confirmation.

She said she has directed the Maine State Police to work closely with local law enforcement to provide whatever support is needed in advance of and during any potential Federal operations. Mills also said her administration has been in contact with Portland and Lewiston city officials and the Attorney General’s Office to coordinate a response.

Mills also had a message for the Federal government. She says if the plan is to come here to be provocative and to undermine the civil rights of Mainers, those tactics are not welcome here.

She also offered support to those who consider protesting but urges people to do so peacefully.

City officials in Lewiston and Portland say they are getting ready for the deployment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents.

In a social media post Wednesday, Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said, “it is my understanding that there will be ICE enforcement.”

Sheline urged residents and businesses to know their rights and have a plan of action if they are contacted by ICE officials.

Sheline also reminded everyone Lewiston Police do not enforce federal law.

Portland Mayor Mark Dion told the Sun Journal he “rejects the need for the deployment of ICE Agents into our neighborhoods.”

Dion also told the paper the Portland Police Department does not cooperate with ICE, and they do not participate in enforcing federal immigration law.