Police Department Update

Calls for Service: In May, the Sanford Police Department addressed a total of 3,477 calls for service, involving various incidents. These included 191 instances of 911 hang-ups, 53 reported thefts, and 34 domestic disturbances. The Mental Health Unit (MHU), a crucial department component, responded to 111 calls throughout the month. Within this figure, there were 52 calls specifically related to mental health concerns. Additionally, the unit attended to 32 calls involving homeless individuals and handled 13 medical calls (overdose, welfare checks, intoxicated/incapacitated and FD calls for assistance). 

New Police Department Employees:

Officer Brandon Donaldson: Originally from Poughkeepsie, NY, he enlisted in the Navy after high school graduation. Following his military service, he worked as a carpenter and building framer. Officer Jeremy Riddle introduced him to the Sanford Police Department, sparking his interest in a law enforcement career. Currently, Brandon resides in Sanford with his dog, Bow. 

Officer Hunter Lemieux: A graduate of Bucksport High School, he has experience in private security and worked as a Corrections Officer with the York County Sheriff’s Department. Hunter has always had a passion for law enforcement and is eager to begin his career in Sanford.

Both Brandon and Hunter have started their field training and will attend the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s Basic Law Enforcement Training Program in the coming months.

Custodian Michael Goodrich: Born and raised in Sanford, Maine, he previously worked at Shaw’s Warehouse for 21 years. Mike, along with his fiancé and two children, live in Sanford. He looks forward to a long career with the City of Sanford and has already demonstrated his commitment to excellence within the department. 

Mental Health Unit Updates:The Mental Health Unit (MHU) has logged 91 unique individuals reporting homelessness since January 1, 2023. Out of these 91 people, 34 were identified as homeless by the MHU in previous years. Among the 91 individuals, 30 are no longer homeless in Sanford as they have either found housing, left the area or obtained alternative shelter. Currently, there are 61 people logged as living outside without housing. Out of these 61 individuals, 29 have been homeless for two or more years. The majority of the 61 people living outside have a known or diagnosed condition. Since January, the MHU has received 167 service calls specifically related to homeless individuals in the community. 

Neighborhood Watch Updates: At least two successful neighborhood watches have been formed, with approximately 164 participants in the Bateman Street area. Residents seeking further details or wishing to join an existing watch can attend monthly Community Advisory Group meetings held at the Police Department on the fourth Tuesday of every month. 

Citizens Advisory Group: The Citizens Advisory Group continues to meet at the Police Department on the fourth Tuesday of every month. The Police Department welcomes public input on improving Sanford by fostering community relationships. Check the Police Department’s Facebook page for updates.