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Limit on ICE Cooperation Will Help Maine’s Domestic Violence Survivors | Opinion

On July 29, a new state law went into effect, creating a clear boundary between Maine law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement.

The Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence supported this initiative (LD 1971) during the last legislative session in part because the Trump administration’s war on immigrants, and the public entanglement of some in Maine’s law enforcement with those efforts, has had a destructive effect on the ability of immigrant survivors of domestic violence to access safety in our state.

Maine’s regional domestic violence resource centers exist to support the safety and stability of anyone in our community experiencing domestic violence. Foundational to that is for all survivors to know that help is available and to believe that reaching out is safe. Yet immigrant victims are living in fear that reaching out for any help risks being detained or deported themselves — that even leaving home could result in tragedy.

Fears about local law enforcement’s entanglement with ICE are even more complicated by the recent revelations that Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero’s ICE-agent killer is an abuser himself.

In the days following Johan Sebastián’s death, two former spouses of the ICE agent who killed him shared their experiences of domestic violence at his hands and their long-held beliefs as to his capacity for lethal violence, including information that would have been available to the Department of Homeland Security at the time of his hiring.

Immigrant survivors already faced substantial barriers to seeking help, including language barriers, financial dependence, social isolation and concerns about their immigration status. Predictably, events over the last year have worked to make those barriers insurmountable for most. Victims in Maine are not reporting crimes, not seeking or renewing protective orders and are hesitant to seek out community services.

The Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence and advocates across the state work with state and local law enforcement every day. While our experience is that most members of Maine’s law enforcement are committed to ensuring that crime victims can safely reach out for help, regardless of the color of their skin or their immigration status, public trust has been shattered by chaos and fear intentionally spread by the federal administration and the many documented cases of voluntary cooperation by local law enforcement.

All survivors deserve and are entitled to access safety, support services and legal protections regardless of immigration status. Our doors are open to all; our services are free and confidential and do not require a victim to make a report to law enforcement.

Rebuilding trust and ensuring that survivors feel safe seeking help remains critical to protecting victims and holding offenders accountable. Much work lies ahead, and while we all have a role to play, Maine’s new law is key.

It is a tangible and visible step for rebuilding that trust in Maine’s local law enforcement, and it couldn’t be coming at a more critical time.

Co-authored by MCEDV Executive Director Francine Garland Stark and Public Policy Director Andrea Mancuso.

Published August 12, 2026 in the Portland Press Herald.

Voices

Voices From
the Movement

What survivors, advocates, and partners across Maine say about this work.

This topic is so difficult for so many folks, myself included. This was the safest and most comfortable I’ve felt during a domestic violence training.
Trainee On attending an MCEDV training
Sometimes I struggle to focus during zoom trainings, but I noticed that I was very focused and engaged during this one because it was very interesting and the presenters are obviously very knowledgeable and passionate about this subject.
Trainee On attending an MCEDV training
As a DV survivor, I am taken by the authenticity of your work – you absolutely get the insidiousness and pervasiveness of DV. As a professional, I believe this program should be standard issue for everyone who is in direct care/ social service roles (along with so many other occupations).
Survivor-Trainee On attending an MCEDV training
Thank you to the wonderful team at MCEDV. You do a fantastic job organizing and fighting for victims/survivors.
Survivor On testifying in the Maine Legislature
I am very thankful for the guidance and support from the staff of MCEDV. I have appreciated the mentorship, the laughter, and the opportunities to be in spaces with you all.
Angie Member Advocate
I am frequently SO grateful for the progress we have made as a state to collaborate and connect as DVRCs and advocates doing this work. You all do a tremendous job representing us, supporting us, and guiding us to do the best work we can to serve survivors.
Hannah Member Advocate
MCEDV’s technical assistance has been invaluable. I have always relied on MCEDV for support, direction, and resources, but as times have become more difficult and strained, our ability to rely on MCEDV staff has been crucial. We rely on this TA when we need a zoomed out, statewide perspective about a complex issue, when we face difficulty with system partners, when technical issues get in the way of our best work and we are stuck, when we need mentorship, or even just for a pep talk. Thank you for your amazing work!
Julia Member Advocate
It is because of their work, and the people at MCEDV who refused to give in that I am able to rebuild my life. The trauma of domestic violence leaves deep scars that take years to heal. But it can be done. I am now working on my Master of Social Work. I want to be a part of the good work. That is what MCEDV does, the good work.
Survivor On MCEDV’s systems advocacy work
Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get help?

MCEDV does policy, education, and administrative work to end abuse in Maine; one-on-one survivor services are offered by advocates at our member centers. If you are experiencing abuse and need support, call the Statewide Domestic Abuse Helpline: 1-866-834-HELP. Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 1-800-437-1220. Or visit mcedv.org/get-help to connect with a program near you.

What is your mission?

MCEDV advocates for the right of all people to live free from domestic abuse and all forms of violence. We envision a world where respect is our norm, and where all people thrive in their homes and communities — nurtured, healthy, joyful, and free.

How many members do you have?

MCEDV is statewide, supporting eight regional Domestic Violence Resource Centers with outreach locations in all 16 counties, and culturally specific services for immigrant, refugee, asylum-seeking and BIPOC communities in the Lewiston/Auburn area.

When were you founded?

MCEDV has been working to end domestic violence since 1977, founded by advocates across the state who saw a need for a unified voice in policy discussions in Augusta. For nearly 50 years, we have created change in how Mainers understand and respond to abuse.

How can I donate?

There are several ways to support MCEDV: direct financial assistance for survivors through the Liberation Fund, contributions to MCEDV’s long-term sustainability, and support for the public policy work that state and federal funding do not cover. Visit mcedv.org/donate to become a partner in our work.

Are you a 501(c)(3)?

Yes. MCEDV is a private, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Is my visit to this website kept private?

Use the Exit Site button any time to leave quickly. For full privacy, browse in a private/incognito window and clear your history. If you’re in danger, call 911.

How can I contact you?

MCEDV is based in Augusta, but our members and team are statewide. Address: PO Box 5188, Augusta, ME 04332. Phone: 207-430-8334. Email: info@MCEDV.org.

An unfurling fiddlehead fern, the MCEDV motif for growth and new beginnings
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