MaineHealth is requesting support from the Maine congressional delegation to obtain information regarding a nurse at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Portland who was reportedly detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Friday, August 1.
MaineHealth officials stated that the individual was reportedly detained at Logan Airport in Boston. The organization said it received no prior notice that the individual was taken into custody and has not been provided information by immigration officials regarding the individual's current whereabouts or case status.
Britt Crewse, president of MaineHealth’s Southern Region, stated that the organization has reached out to the congressional delegation to seek further information about the status of the care team member. Crewse expressed concern regarding the situation, noting that the individual appears to have been living and working in the area legally.
MaineHealth officials emphasized that all individuals hired by the organization are thoroughly vetted to ensure they are authorized to reside and work in the United States. The organization is currently providing support to the nurse's attorneys as they work to secure her release.
Crewse noted that the enforcement surge by immigration authorities has caused concern among other care team members who are immigrants. MaineHealth stated it takes great care in ensuring all employees are legally authorized to work for the organization.
