Maine's U.S. Attorney warns that violent ICE protesters will be arrested

The Minneapolis riots tend to ramp up during the nighttime hours. (Courtesy)

PORTLAND, Maine - The U.S. Attorney for Maine is warning residents to not cross the line when protesting Immigration and Customs agents enforcement actions in Maine.

High level federal officials have told multiple news outlets that ICE agents will be in Maine this week, particularly Portland and Lewiston, to conduct detention and arrests of illegal aliens wanted for crimes they committed in the United States.

"Every member of federal law enforcement swears to support and defend the Constitution of the United States," U.S. Attorney Andrew Benson said in a statement released on Monday. "This oath guides the men and women of law enforcement as they fulfill their duty to enforce federal law, including the laws relating to illegal immigration.

The statement comes in the wake of violent protests in Minneapolis that have resulted in the death of one protester and serious in injuries to dozens of ICE agents, including one who was attacked with a shovel and sustained serious injury.

Benson urged protesters not to resort to the violence that has been seen in Minnesota.

"The Constitution guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and to protest," he added. "These are fundamental rights that form the basis for a free society. What is not protected, however, are acts of violence against other individuals, destruction of property, or obstruction of lawful governmental activity."

He also warned protesters that there will be consequences if they attempt to thwart or insert themselves into ICE operations.

"In the coming days, if Maine citizens seek to exercise their rights to assemble and protest, it is vital that these protests remain peaceful," Benson added. Anyone who forcibly assaults or impedes a federal law enforcement officer, willfully destroys government property, or unlawfully obstructs federal law enforcement activity commits a federal crime and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

"Finally, it is incumbent upon anyone with a public voice--whether that be an elected official, commentator or engaged citizen--to similarly urge peaceful protest and engagement. Divisive, bombastic public statements only inflame the situation and make violence more likely."