ICE Arrests Illegal Immigrant Working as Police Officer in Maine

On Monday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported the arrest of an illegal immigrant who had been working as a police officer in Maine. The individual, John Luke Evans, a Jamaican national, was serving as a reserve officer at the Old Orchard Beach Police Station when he was apprehended on July 25 after attempting to buy a firearm.

ICE and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) became aware of Evans after he made an illegal attempt to purchase guns. Officials expressed concern about the employment of illegal immigrants in police roles. A spokesperson noted, “It’s concerning that illegal aliens are posted at police stations and potentially have access to firearms.” They added that ICE Boston remains committed to public safety by removing individuals deemed a threat.

Evans had originally entered the United States legally through Miami International Airport on September 24, 2023, but overstayed his visa, which expired on October 1, 2023. Citing this information, ICE took action.

Hired as a summer reserve in May, the Old Orchard Beach Police Department stated it had verified multiple forms of identification and completed the necessary I-9 forms. According to Chief Ellis Chard, Evans had cleared all required physical, medical, and background checks and even successfully passed training for his role.

Reserves such as Evans typically conduct beach patrols and community policing while being trained in firearms use. However, protocols prevent them from carrying personal firearms during duty hours or taking department-issued weapons home.

This case is not isolated; it echoes a previous incident in April, where ICE arrested another illegal immigrant from Congo who was also involved in law enforcement in Maine under similar circumstances.