A shadow of controversy has fallen over Lewiston, Maine, as newly elected City Councilor Iman Osman faces serious allegations and calls for his resignation.
An Androscoggin County grand jury has indicted Osman on charges of receiving stolen property and theft, stemming from incidents involving weapons taken from two separate estates between November 2023 and October 2024.
The indictment details accusations that Osman knowingly possessed firearms and explosive devices he reasonably believed were stolen, and unlawfully controlled weapons belonging to another estate.
Mayor Carl Sheline, while acknowledging Osman’s right to due process, has publicly urged him to step down, stating the legal proceedings will be a significant distraction from the city’s business.
However, the criminal charges are only one facet of the unfolding drama. Questions surrounding Osman’s residency have ignited a firestorm of debate and scrutiny.
Osman, 36, secured his seat on the City Council representing Ward 5 in a close election on November 4th, narrowly defeating the incumbent by a mere 35 votes. He simultaneously serves on the Lewiston School Committee.
The address listed on the indictment – 210 Blake Street – is a condemned property, declared uninhabitable since October following a drug raid and the use of chemicals intended to deter occupancy.
This raises a critical question: how can a councilor represent a ward while officially residing at a legally uninhabitable address?
Despite the gravity of the situation, the Lewiston School Committee has declined to investigate the residency claims, further fueling public concern.
Osman, through his legal counsel, has firmly stated he has no intention of resigning, despite mounting pressure from local officials.
The City Council is now grappling with a resolution acknowledging “credible and legitimate questions” about Osman’s residency qualifications, asserting its authority to evaluate a sitting councilor’s eligibility.
The core of the issue remains Osman’s address, with no clear timeline for his return to the condemned property, leaving residents questioning whether Ward 5 is truly represented.
Osman has not disclosed his current residence, with his attorney citing concerns about harassment as the reason for maintaining confidentiality. Plans to return to Blake Street are contingent on unspecified renovations.
Maine law defines residency as a “fixed and principal home” to which a person intends to return, even during temporary absences. The law also protects residency if someone temporarily leaves with the intent to return.
City Clerk Kathy Montejo confirms the legal standard, but the circumstances surrounding Osman’s situation continue to cast a long shadow over his ability to fulfill his duties and maintain the public’s trust.
