Maine Governor Demands ICE Reform or Abolition After Fatal Shooting

Maine Governor Janet Mills is demanding significant changes to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, calling for its reform or complete abolition. This strong stance comes after a recent ICE operation in Maine resulted in the fatal shooting of a 25-year-old Colombian man, Joan Sebastián Guerrero.

Mills, a Democrat, has written to her state's congressional representatives, urging them to act. She stated that Congress must ensure ICE upholds the rule of law and public safety. "ICE must be reformed before another family is robbed of a loved one," Mills declared. "If that does not happen, it is time to abolish it."

The incident occurred when an ICE agent shot Guerrero in his car in Biddeford, Maine. The Department of Homeland Security claimed the agent acted out of "concern for public safety" and that Guerrero used his car as a weapon against officers. However, Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused the U.S. of "murder."

“

ICE must be reformed before another family is robbed of a loved one. If that does not happen, it is time to abolish it.

Activists say Guerrero possessed a work permit, but the Department of Homeland Security stated he illegally entered the U.S. in September 2023. This shooting is the fourth death linked to ICE operations since January. Reports indicate that ICE may implement stricter guidelines, limiting vehicle stops and checks to exceptional circumstances like executing warrants or collaborating with partner agencies.

This is not the first time Mills has criticized ICE. In January, she raised concerns about federal agents' conduct during multiple operations in Maine, which she deemed unlawful and reckless.

“

Mord