Governor directs Maine County Sheriffs to comply with ICE illegal alien detention requests

AUGUSTA – Maine Republican Party Chair Dr. Demi Kouzounas released the following statement today in appreciation of Governor LePage’s directive to Maine’s county sheriffs directing them to comply with detention requests from ICE.

“We appreciate Governor LePage’s expectation and directive that Maine’s county sheriffs work with the federal government to comply with detention requests for individuals who are not in the United States legally,” said Chair Kouzounas.

“The Governor’s letter makes clear that he has the authority to issue this directive, and it is the right thing to do,” added Dr. Kouzounas. “As a party, we have deep respect for our county sheriffs, who keep Maine people safe across Maine, and we hope that all sixteen sheriffs across Maine will work with ICE and the federal government to comply with these requests.”

“Let us not forget, we are talking about individuals who are not in our country legally, and who are currently being detained by law enforcement after breaking our laws,” said Dr. Kouzounas.

“This is about keeping our streets safe for the people of Maine,” continued Dr. Kouzounas. “One or two Maine sheriffs should not put our system in peril because they wish to not obey our laws and constitution, and instead put illegal immigrants who are in custody ahead of safety and the rule of law.”

“Our team stands ready to support the sheriffs who work to protect Maine people, and to make sure that the rare sheriff who refuses to comply has to find a new line of work.”

You can read the Governor’s letter to Maine County Sheriffs here: www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=767392&an=1