Overview
- A widely shared photo shows Mt. Blue Middle School principal James Black wearing a vest labeled “Police ICE,” an ICE cap, a stars-and-stripes gaiter, and zip ties on his hip.
- Bangor Daily News reports a separate image circulating online appears to show Black in the same outfit holding an assault-style rifle.
- Superintendent Christian Elkington said the incident occurred off RSU #9 grounds and that the district is responding under its internal practices while maintaining employee confidentiality.
- Project Relief Maine and other critics argue the imagery could traumatize immigrant students, with many calling for Black to resign and planning to speak at a Nov. 18 school board meeting.
- DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin defended the costume as uncontroversial for Halloween, while Black’s family says the photo was taken at a private home and not worn in public or at school.