📰BIDDEFORD | Mayor LaFountain’s Update on Federal Immigration Enforcement Operations in Biddeford
- Jan 24
- 2 min read
January 24, 2026, below is the updated statement we have received from Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain regarding ICE operating in Biddeford:
"One week ago, I released a statement as information about federal enforcement activity and its local impacts were still evolving. Since then, conditions have changed and daily life in Biddeford is being affected.
Families are staying home. Workers with valid documentation are calling out of their jobs. School absenteeism is rising. Staffing shortages are affecting schools, healthcare providers, and local employers. Some families no longer feel safe leaving their homes and are struggling to access food, basic necessities, and essential services. These impacts are real, and they are happening here.
In response, the City is coordinating across departments, including the Police Department, School Department, and City Manager’s Office. The City’s focus has remained public safety, maintaining essential services, and ensuring residents receive accurate and verifiable information.
The City is receiving questions from residents about observed federal immigration enforcement activity. Federal agencies are not providing the Biddeford Police Department with any notice, operational details, or information about where and whom enforcement actions may involve.
The Biddeford Police Department is documenting calls from residents who report possible immigration enforcement activity. As a matter of long-standing policy, the Department cannot enforce federal civil immigration law and does not participate in immigration enforcement operations.
The School Department including the Superintendent’s Office, Mayor’s Office, School Committee, and community partners are working together to support student well-being, food access, and continuity of services for families.
To keep residents informed, the City will:
• Provide updates as verified information is available
• Share verified resources
• Act within legal boundaries
Biddeford is a city of families, workers, students, and neighbors. While federal enforcement decisions are beyond municipal control, how we care for one another remains in our hands. Check on your neighbors. Show up for one another."
Legal guidance, know-your-rights information, and community support resources are available through:
ACLU of Maine
207-774-5444, info@aclumaine.org
Website: https://www.aclumaine.org/preparingforice/
Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP)
207-780-1593
Website: https://ilapmaine.org/know-your-rights
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