News - Centralmaine.com

A closer look at the Maine names on Homeland Security’s ‘worst of the worst’ list

by Rachel Estabrook and Dylan Tusinski January 31, 2026January 31, 2026

Federal officials have publicized a database of arrests as part of the justification for recent enhanced enforcement efforts, but the list cites decades-old charges and arrests made by local police months earlier.

Maine, News

ICE said it came to Maine to target the ‘worst of the worst.’ Did it?

by Rachel Ohm January 31, 2026February 4, 2026

Federal authorities repeatedly highlighted a handful of people with past criminal charges arrested as part of their operation in Maine. But several other cases involve residents who don’t have criminal records.

Maine, News, Schools and Education

Western Maine school competes in WinterKids Winter Games

by Rebecca Richard January 30, 2026February 2, 2026

Community Regional Charter School in Skowhegan is taking part in the 2026 WinterKids Winter Games, a monthlong statewide outdoor learning and wellness challenge for Maine schools.

News

Senate passes government funding deal despite Republican backlash

by MARY CLARE JALONICK and LISA MASCARO Associated Press January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

Maine Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King both voted in favor of the spending legislation.

Maine, News

Maine’s top federal judge orders ICE to release woman arrested without warrant

by Emily Allen January 30, 2026February 11, 2026

Francoise Makuiza was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 23 while leaving her neighborhood for work.

Maine, News

Asylum seekers swept up during immigration enforcement surge in Maine

by Emily Allen January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

Several asylum seekers arrested in Maine during U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s recent operation had long waits for hearings in immigration court.

Business, Food & Dining, Maine, News

Judge dismisses animal cruelty lawsuit against Maine Lobster Festival

by Penelope Overton January 30, 2026January 31, 2026

In a suit filed by PETA, the court determined individuals do not have a legal right to be free from conduct they find personally offensive.

Maine, News, Schools and Education

7th school district added to Maine lawsuit challenging transgender policies

by Riley Board January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

The Maine Human Rights Commission is suing districts over policies about transgender athlete participation in sports, which it say conflicts with state law.