Cumberland County District Attorney Jackie Sartoris canceled Friday’s 10 a.m. news conference dealing with ICE agents thought to be stepping up enforcement in Portland.
Sartoris says the court administrators expressed concern that providing security for both a press conference expected to be well-attended and regular Court business may simply be unrealistic.
Sartoris issued a statement Friday, saying in part:
“There is no blanket immunity from potential prosecution for illegal acts, and certainly no “absolute immunity” for anyone, including residents, visitors, and federal agents. And, the statute of limitations in Maine even for misdemeanor criminal conduct is a minimum of 3 years, and up to 5 years for acts performed by government officials. While the bar to prosecute federal officers is high, it is hardly insurmountable. As we do in all alleged violations of law, we will be prepared to review the facts and evidence, proceed with appropriate charges, and prosecute accordingly.”
Sartoris says she cancelled Friday’s meeting out of an abundance of caution.
She said limitations of staffing also made the cancellation the most appropriate step.
Meanwhile, the Maine Fraternal Order of Police issued a statement Friday saying they support ICE:
“The Maine Fraternal Order of Police will continue to stand with ICE and with all duly sworn law enforcement officers who serve with courage, restraint, and dedication. We remain committed to the safety of Maine’s communities and to the principles of law, order and justice for all.”
The group also criticized comments made by Gov. Janet Mills in recent days expressing concern that ICE agents might agitate and cause unrest in Maine communities.
Maine Democratic Congresswoman Chellie Pingree attended a hearing Friday in Minnesota, where Renee Good was shot and killed by an ICE agent earlier this month.
Rep. Pingree joined other lawmakers during the hearing and said she was seeking guidance amid reports that ICE will be sending agents to Maine.
Homeland Security has not officially confirmed reports that immigration agents will be sent to Maine in the near future.
