State Tried To Hide Criminals

ICE’s “Operation Catch of the Day” has launched a major enforcement sweep in Maine targeting criminal illegal aliens, while state officials continue obstructing federal immigration law through sanctuary policies that shield lawbreakers from deportation.

Story Snapshot

ICE initiates “Operation Catch of the Day” targeting criminal illegal aliens in Maine communities including Lewiston, Portland, and Westbrook
Maine’s LD 1971 law, effective since 2025, prohibits state and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities
The sanctuary legislation directly undermines constitutional federal authority over immigration enforcement and public safety
Historical pattern shows Maine advocacy groups actively work to obstruct ICE operations dating back to 2019

Federal Operation Targets Criminal Aliens Despite State Obstruction

ICE launched “Operation Catch of the Day” across Maine targeting what the Department of Homeland Security describes as “the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens.” The operation focuses on communities including Lewiston, Portland, and Westbrook, where federal agents face resistance from state policies designed to shield illegal immigrants from deportation. Ring doorbell footage and news coverage captured ICE detaining individuals in Westbrook, demonstrating the operation’s active enforcement despite local government hostility. This represents the Trump administration’s commitment to removing dangerous criminals from American communities, even when state officials actively obstruct public safety efforts.

Maine’s Sanctuary Law Undermines Constitutional Federal Authority

Governor Mills allowed LD 1971 to become law in June 2025, prohibiting state and local law enforcement from using resources to support federal immigration enforcement operations. The legislation became effective ninety days after the legislature adjourned, creating a sanctuary state framework that directly conflicts with federal supremacy over immigration matters established in the Constitution. This law prevents Maine officers from honoring ICE detainer requests, cooperating with federal agents, or sharing information about criminal aliens in custody. The policy prioritizes protecting illegal immigrants over public safety and constitutional governance, forcing federal agents to operate without state assistance.

ACLU and Advocacy Groups Champion Obstruction Policies

The ACLU of Maine celebrated LD 1971’s passage, framing the sanctuary policy as protecting immigrant communities from federal enforcement. Immigration Legal Assistance Project (ILAP) documentation reveals a timeline of organized resistance to immigration enforcement dating to 2019, when operations targeted Latine and Somali communities. These organizations provide legal support specifically designed to help illegal immigrants evade federal authorities and deportation proceedings. A June 2024 incident where local police detained passengers for Border Patrol drew advocacy group criticism, illustrating their consistent opposition to cooperation between law enforcement levels. This coordinated effort undermines the rule of law and democratic processes.

State Defiance Threatens Federal Immigration System

Maine’s sanctuary framework represents a dangerous precedent where state governments nullify federal authority over matters explicitly assigned to Washington by the Constitution. The legislation forces ICE to conduct operations without local intelligence, officer assistance, or access to jailed criminal aliens awaiting deportation. This obstruction increases risks for federal agents operating without backup and allows dangerous individuals to remain in communities longer than necessary. President Trump’s administration faces the challenge of enforcing immigration law against active state resistance rather than cooperative federalism. Conservative Americans understand that when states pick and choose which federal laws to enforce, constitutional governance collapses and public safety suffers the consequences of political grandstanding over common sense security measures.

The collision between federal enforcement authority and state sanctuary policies creates legal chaos that benefits only those breaking immigration law. Operation Catch of the Day demonstrates the Trump administration’s determination to fulfill its constitutional duty despite coordinated obstruction from leftist state governments prioritizing ideology over citizen safety and rule of law.