Capitol Police to Be Merged Into Maine State Police

The Maine State Police will assume control of the agency responsible for protecting the State House and lawmakers, state officials announced Thursday.

The Bureau of Capitol Police, which employs roughly a dozen officers tasked with securing the State House and protecting legislators and visitors, will be gradually merged into the Maine State Police over the next several years. According to the Kennebec Journal, the bureau operates under the Department of Public Safety, which also oversees the state police.

Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck announced the change in an email to staff, a move first reported by the Bangor Daily News. Sauschuck did not respond to a request for comment Thursday night.

According to the Department of Public Safety, the decision was made to better support increasing security demands at the Capitol. Officials say the merger will improve resource allocation, operational efficiency, and coordination once the Maine State Police assume management oversight.

The KJ said the announcement comes amid a rise in threats against Maine lawmakers in recent years. The State House complex has also experienced multiple lockdowns due to bomb threats during that time.

The Capitol Police have been without a permanent chief since August, when former chief Matthew Clancy was placed on leave following his arrest in Hallowell. The newspaper said Clancy was accused of assaulting another officer while intoxicated at a bar. He resigned in October and is now facing a criminal assault charge.

During the transition, Maine State Police Lt. Greg Roy will take on primary leadership responsibilities for the Capitol Police. Capitol Police Lt. Steve Trahan will serve as second in command.

The KJ went on to say that Capitol Police officers and staff will continue working at the State House throughout the transition. It remains unclear whether officers will ultimately be absorbed into the state police force. Department spokesperson Shannon Moss said the bureau will continue its mission during the changeover, which is expected to take place gradually through natural attrition.