In a small Maine town, the recent arrest of a police officer by federal immigration authorities has left both the local police department and town officials seeking answers. The officer, Jon Luke Evans, originally from Jamaica, served the Old Orchard Beach Police Department as a reserve officer, quickly gaining respect and becoming a valued member of the force. However, he was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 25, for allegedly overstaying a visa and unlawfully attempting to buy a firearm. This arrest is part of increased immigration enforcement efforts nationwide.
Police Chief Elise Chard expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the federal authorities regarding Evans’ case, his current situation, or whether he has legal representation. Despite numerous attempts, ICE officials did not provide any comments or updates on the matter. Chard highlighted that Evans was vetted through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) systems and was approved to work in the U.S. until 2030. His absence now disrupts the police department, especially during the summer season when additional manpower is critical. Evans’ wife continues to reside in the area, adding a personal dimension to his case.
The police department had followed the due process using E-Verify, a federal online system designed to confirm employment eligibility. Despite this, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin criticized the town’s reliance on the system, suggesting it doesn’t replace thorough background checks. Town manager Diana Asanza defended the town’s actions, questioning the reliability of a federal system that’s supposed to ensure document authenticity and employment eligibility. She called into question the efficacy of E-Verify, considering the current predicament they face.
ICE explained in a recent statement that Evans had admitted to their officers that his attempt to purchase a firearm for employment initiated his arrest. This action triggered an alarm, bringing in the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to assist. According to the agency, Evans arrived in the U.S. legally but was slated to leave the country in October 2023, a departure he never made, resulting in his visa overstay.
Police Chief Chard confirmed that there is an ongoing investigation within the department looking into all facets of Evans’ arrest. Meanwhile, Representative Lori K. Gramlich, Assistant House Majority Leader in Maine, has urged for a federal review of the DHS approval process and E-Verify. Gramlich emphasizes the need for clearer guidelines and communication to ensure local law enforcement is adequately informed before federal actions are taken against any of their personnel. She advocates for improved protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, ensuring transparency and reliability in the employment authorization procedures.