Story perspectives

Nationwide Protests Erupt Over ICE's 'Terrorist' Threats

1/26/2026

Center

Citizen Faces ICE Threats

A U.S. citizen in South Portland, Maine, reported threats by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 21.
She said ICE warned she could be placed on a domestic terrorist watch list.
The operation, named "Operation Catch of the Day," has yielded over 100 arrests.
Protests spread nationwide, including Minnesota, where shootings by federal agents raised fears.
Activists in the Bay Area and other cities call for accountability.

Right

Recruit Detained by ICE

A Cumberland County correctional officer recruit was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Portland, Maine, on January 21.
Cumberland County Sheriff Kevin Joyce criticized ICE's handling, noting the recruit's clean record and valid work paperwork.
Witnesses reported that ICE left the recruit's car running and unsecured after the arrest.
The recruit is now held in Boston on an "ICE violation."
The Department of Homeland Security defended ICE's actions.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, the U.S. launched Operation Catch of the Day, arresting over 100 undocumented immigrants as part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy by the Department of Homeland Security. This operation reflects ongoing tensions regarding civil liberties and immigration practices, echoing past concerns about government overreach, as recent threats by ICE in South Portland have reignited calls for accountability and reform in immigration enforcement.

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Citizen Faces ICE Threats

A U.S. citizen in South Portland, Maine, reported threats by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 21.
She said ICE warned she could be placed on a domestic terrorist watch list.
The operation, named "Operation Catch of the Day," has yielded over 100 arrests.
Protests spread nationwide, including Minnesota, where shootings by federal agents raised fears.
Activists in the Bay Area and other cities call for accountability.

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