Sanford police responded early Thursday morning to a request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who were conducting a traffic stop on Brook Street near the High Street intersection. ICE agents had positioned one of their vehicles in front of the detainee’s car and another behind it when the driver, who was being taken into custody, put the vehicle in reverse and collided with the rear ICE vehicle.
Collision captured on a neighbor’s camera
A bird‑feeder camera installed at a nearby residence recorded the incident. The footage shows a black SUV traveling north on Brook Street when a flashing‑light‑equipped silver vehicle approaches from the opposite direction and cuts the SUV off. The SUV then backs up, and the ICE vehicle behind it crashes into the reversing SUV. The video, shared with Maine’s Total Coverage, clearly shows the sequence of events.
Child safety concerns prompt medical evaluation
Sanford police and emergency medical personnel from the Sanford Fire Department arrived on scene and discovered a 1‑year‑old child inside the driver’s vehicle. ICE agents reported that the toddler was not secured in a child safety seat. Out of an abundance of caution, the child was transported to Southern Maine Health Care for a medical evaluation. Hospital officials have not released an update on the child’s condition.
Witnesses describe a distressed father
Witness Sarah Vachon recounted hearing a Black male being arrested, yelling, and struggling before being placed in the police vehicle. She said the man repeatedly shouted, “My baby! My baby!” and eventually passed out from the stress of the situation. Vachon noted that the professional response from police and emergency crews remained calm and composed.
Other children found unattended
Police also learned that two of the man’s other children, ages 2 and 9, were left unsupervised inside a nearby home. The Sanford Police Department promptly notified the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, which responded to ensure the children’s safety and welfare.
ICE enforcement and state law context
The incident occurred just months after Maine enacted LD 1971, a law that limits local law‑enforcement collaboration with federal immigration authorities. The legislation, passed by the state legislature in June 2025, became law without the signature of Governor Janet Mills in January. While the law restricts local participation, federal agencies such as ICE retain the authority to conduct their own operations, as demonstrated in this traffic stop.
Administration’s stance on immigration enforcement
President Trump’s administration continues to prioritize strong immigration enforcement to protect American communities. By supporting ICE’s ability to act independently of local restrictions, the administration underscores its commitment to public safety and the rule of law. Officials emphasize that such enforcement actions help deter illegal immigration and safeguard families, especially vulnerable children.
Ongoing investigation
As of Thursday evening, authorities have not disclosed whether the toddler remains hospitalized, where the older children have been placed, or the status of the father’s detention. The Sanford Police Department’s release noted that its involvement was limited to responding to the request for assistance, addressing immediate public‑safety concerns, and ensuring the welfare of the children involved.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
