Old Orchard Beach, ME — Jon Luke Evans, a reserve officer with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department, has agreed to leave the country voluntarily following his arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 25, 2024, authorities confirmed.
Arrest Sparks Dispute Over Employment Eligibility
Evans, originally from Jamaica, was arrested by ICE as part of the agency’s increased efforts in immigration enforcement. Local officials, including Police Chief Elise Chard, stated that the town had been previously informed by federal authorities that Evans was legally authorized to work in the U.S. through the Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify program.
“The town reiterates its ongoing commitment to meeting all state and federal laws regarding employment,” Chard said in a statement on Monday. “We will continue to rely on the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form and the E-Verify database to confirm employment eligibility.”
Voluntary Departure and Legal Disputes
An ICE representative confirmed to The Associated Press that Evans had been granted voluntary departure by a judge and could leave the U.S. as early as that day. Although the details of his case were not disclosed, this arrangement prevents Evans from being deported.
Evans’ arrest ignited a dispute between Old Orchard Beach officials and ICE. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, accused the town of “reckless reliance” on the E-Verify program, which is an online system that helps employers confirm whether potential employees are legally authorized to work in the U.S.
“The town was notified by federal officials that Evans was legally permitted to work in the country,” Chard said, adding that the town had complied with the necessary verification procedures.
As reported by AP News, Evans was initially held at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Central Falls, Rhode Island, but was later transferred to an ICE facility in Burlington, Massachusetts. Authorities have not disclosed whether Evans has legal representation.
ICE Charges and Discrepancy in Detention Location
According to ICE in July, Evans was accused of overstaying his visa and attempting to purchase a firearm illegally. WMTW-TV reported on Monday that Evans’ voluntary departure means he will be allowed to leave the U.S. at his own expense to avoid formal deportation.
Commitment to Compliance
Despite the confusion surrounding Evans’ arrest, Old Orchard Beach officials remain committed to ensuring that all employees meet the necessary legal requirements. Chief Chard emphasized that the town’s adherence to the I-9 and E-Verify programs is central to their employment process moving forward.
“We continue to follow the proper procedures for employment eligibility verification,” Chard added.
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