Jamaican-Born Maine police officer agrees to voluntary departure after ICE arrest

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Jon Luke Evans, a reserve police officer in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, has agreed to leave the United States voluntarily following his arrest by federal immigration authorities, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Maine police officer Jon Luke Evans will voluntarily leave the United States

Evans, originally from Jamaica, was taken into custody on July 25 amid ICE’s intensified enforcement efforts. The agency alleges that Evans overstayed his visa and attempted to purchase a firearm illegally while serving in uniform. A judge has since approved his request for voluntary departure. This allows him to exit the country on his own dime and avoid a formal deportation order.

Confirming his work eligibility

The case has stirred tension between local officials and federal agencies. Police Chief Elise Chard and town leaders say they hired Evans only after confirming his work eligibility through the Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system. They also said federal authorities previously assured them that Evans had legal authorization to work in the U.S.

However, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin later criticized the town’s reliance on E-Verify, calling it “reckless” and suggesting the system failed to catch Evans’ immigration violation.

Interagency communication

Evans’ arrest has also raised questions about interagency communication and the accuracy of federal employment verification tools. ICE’s detainee database initially listed Evans at the Wyatt Detention Facility in Rhode Island, but officials later confirmed his transfer to a facility in Burlington, Massachusetts.

About voluntary departure

According to immigration law, voluntary departure allows individuals to leave the country without a deportation mark on their record, which can ease future reentry. However, the process requires the individual to admit:

• unlawful presence
• waive any pending applications
• demonstrate both intent and financial ability to depart.

Evans met those conditions and could leave as early as the day the judge issued the order. The town of Old Orchard Beach has acknowledged reports of his planned departure. They also reaffirmed its commitment to following all federal employment laws.

This unfolding situation continues to spotlight the challenges local agencies face when navigating federal immigration systems. This especially when public safety roles are involved.