A Jamaican national serving as a reserve police officer in Maine has been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for attempting to purchase a firearm illegally. The officer, identified as Jon Luke Evans, was arrested on July 25 and has since agreed to leave the country voluntarily rather than face deportation.
According to federal authorities, Evans entered the United States legally through Miami International Airport on September 24, 2023, but failed to depart by the required date of October 1, 2023, resulting in unlawful presence. The case has raised significant concerns about the verification of immigration status for individuals working in law enforcement and the potential risks associated with such violations.
ICE officials have stated that they are investigating how Evans was hired by the Old Orchard Beach Police Department and whether he was issued a weapon. Patricia H. Hyde, acting field office director for ERO Boston, emphasized that the case highlights the importance of accountability for individuals who violate immigration laws and pose potential threats to public safety.
Police Chief Elise Chard of Old Orchard Beach Police Department confirmed that the department had been informed by federal officials that Evans had met the legal requirements for employment in the U.S. However, the incident has prompted a review of the hiring process and the use of the E-Verify database for employment eligibility verification.