AUGUSTA – Today, following several days of increased activity from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Westbrook, Rep. Drew Gattine, D-Westbrook, Rep. Morgan Rielly, D-Westbrook, and Rep. Sue Salisbury, D-Westbrook, released the following joint statement:
“As ICE has increased its operations in Maine this week, we have seen a surge of activity focused on Westbrook. ICE has repeatedly stated that its actions are intended to make our community safer and that it is only targeting individuals with criminal records. That has not been the case.
“ICE’s presence in Westbrook has been disruptive to schools, local businesses and the lives of our community members. We have neighbors and friends who are scared to leave their homes, kids who aren't going to school and parents who aren't going to work.
“One of the arrests involved an 18-year-old while he was at the grocery store – someone with no criminal record who poses no threat to public safety. In at least three instances, ICE agents have also followed and attempted to intimidate volunteers who are simply trying to help support their neighbors. In one case, they even threatened to arrest a volunteer.
“While ICE is attempting to tear apart our community, they have only made us come together. Neighbors are stepping up to help neighbors – keeping an eye on bus stops, driving others to appointments and donating to food pantries so meals can be delivered to homes.
“Westbrook is a strong community. We will not be bullied, and we will not back down.”
Rep. Drew Gattine is serving his sixth non-consecutive term in the Maine House and represents House District 126. Rep. Morgan Rielly is serving his third term in the Maine House and represents House District 127. Rep. Sue Salisbury is serving her third term in the Maine House and represents House District 128.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Gattine, Rielly, Salisbury) | 305-965-2744