Democratic lawmakers hold shadow hearing Monday on ICE use of force in Biddeford
Biddeford to Host “Seeking Justice” Event Over ICE Use of Force in July 13 Death
Biddeford, Maine — Community organizers announced that a public gathering titled “Seeking Justice in Biddeford: Oversight of ICE’s Use of Force in the Death of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero” will be held in the city following the July 13 death of the 26‑year‑old. The event, scheduled for the coming week, seeks to bring attention to the circumstances surrounding Guerrero’s fatal encounter with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
The gathering, which will take place at a local community center in Biddeford, aims to call for greater transparency and oversight of ICE’s use of force during its operations. Organizers say the event is part of a broader effort to hold federal agencies accountable after the fatal incident on July 13, when Guerrero was taken into custody by ICE agents and died in custody.
“We want to make sure that what happened to Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero is thoroughly investigated and that no one is left to wonder why this happened,” one organizer said. “This event is a chance for residents of Biddeford and the broader community to demand answers and push for accountability.”
While the event’s details are still being finalized, attendees are expected to hear from local advocates, legal experts, and community leaders who will discuss the implications of the incident and outline steps toward policy change. Organizers plan to provide resources for families affected by ICE’s actions and will offer a platform for community members to share their experiences and concerns.
The event follows a growing national conversation about the use of force by federal immigration authorities. In recent months, several cities have staged protests and town‑hall meetings to address similar incidents. The Biddeford gathering is the first in the state to focus specifically on a fatal encounter involving ICE.
Community leaders and residents interested in attending or volunteering are encouraged to contact the organizers for more information. The event’s goal is to ensure that the death of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero is not forgotten and that meaningful reforms are pursued to prevent future tragedies.
