Presque Isle Police Department: Everything You Need To Know
Is the safety and security of a community a shared responsibility, or does it primarily rest on the shoulders of its law enforcement agencies? In the heart of Aroostook County, the Presque Isle Police Department exemplifies the unwavering commitment to both public safety and community engagement, serving as a vital pillar for the residents of Presque Isle, Maine.
The Presque Isle Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Laurie Kelly, operates as a comprehensive law enforcement agency, dedicated to the well-being of the community it serves. With a staff comprised of a Chief of Police, Deputy Chief, and at least one Sergeant, the department is structured to address a wide array of challenges inherent in maintaining order and ensuring public safety. The department's jurisdiction spans 78 square miles of both urban and rural areas, underscoring the diverse nature of its responsibilities.
To provide a clearer picture of the department's leadership, staff structure, and the broader context within which it operates, here is a detailed overview:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Department Name | Presque Isle Police Department |
| Location | 43 North Street, Suite 2, Presque Isle, ME 04769 |
| Jurisdiction | Presque Isle, Maine, encompassing 78 square miles |
| Leadership | Chief of Police Laurie Kelly |
| Staff Composition | Chief, Deputy Chief, Sergeants, Detectives, Patrol Officers, Communications Staff, Animal Control Officer, Administrator, Court Records Administrators |
| Services Provided | Law enforcement, emergency response, community outreach, investigation of crimes, traffic enforcement |
| Mission | To serve and protect the community through professional law enforcement practices. |
| Key Initiatives | Citizens Explorer Program, combating drug problems, investigating burglaries. |
| Public Access | Public Safety Building lobby is open 24/7 |
| Facebook Page | [Link to official Facebook Page - if available] |
| Payment Methods | Credit/Debit Card or Check. Cash is no longer accepted. |
| Complaint Procedure | Contact the department via provided channels (address, phone, etc.) |
| Additional information | Presque Isle Police Department's Facebook page shows 16,358 likes, 12 talking about this, and 178 were here |
| Reference | Presque Isle Police Department Official Website |
The departments presence extends beyond basic law enforcement, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and proactive measures to address emerging challenges. As of September 10, 2024, the Presque Isle Police Department has been actively promoting the "Citizens Explorer Program," a program designed to allow individuals aged 20 and older to gain a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and daily experiences of police officers. This initiative, according to Police Chief Chris Hayes, aims to enhance recruitment efforts by offering a realistic insight into the world of law enforcement.
The Presque Isle Police Department has also demonstrated its commitment to its officers and the community by ensuring full staffing, a notable achievement in the context of recent challenges in law enforcement. This was made possible by the city enrolling the police department in the Maine Public Employees Retirement System in 2021, which contributed significantly to staff retention and the attraction of qualified candidates.
In addition to maintaining adequate staffing levels, the Presque Isle Police Department takes steps to modernize its services to deal with the ongoing challenges of maintaining public safety. The department recently announced it would receive $55,000 from the city's American Rescue Plan Act funds. These funds will be used to purchase new ballistic vests and essential gear, thus, enhancing the safety and operational effectiveness of its officers. These resources are particularly pertinent as the department navigates the complex reality of rising crime rates and the persistent issue of drug-related activities in Presque Isle.
The police department is actively involved in addressing local crime issues. In response to a recent spike in motor vehicle burglaries, the Presque Isle Police Department has increased patrols and is urging the public to take precautionary measures. Furthermore, the department is seeking public assistance in identifying an alleged burglar following a break-in at Freshies, where several vaping items were stolen on August 31. These activities demonstrate the departments focus on addressing specific incidents and soliciting community support.
The Presque Isle Police Department is working closely with other law enforcement agencies to address the drug problem in Presque Isle. With the assistance of tips from the public, numerous drug activity complaints are being investigated. Moreover, the department has been involved in assisting the FBI with an ongoing investigation in the community, underscoring the collaborative approach to crime prevention. The FBI is currently conducting "court-authorized activity" at 12 Summer Street as part of this investigation, as confirmed by a supervisory public affairs specialist.
The Presque Isle Police Department is committed to transparency and accountability. The public can report misconduct and receive a detailed response. To make a formal complaint about a police officers actions or any aspect of police operations, individuals should contact the department directly through established channels. After a complaint has been thoroughly investigated, the Chief of Police will review the findings and will issue a letter explaining the outcome of the investigation.
The department also has a very strong social media presence. The Presque Isle Police Department has an official Facebook page that has 16,358 likes, 12 talking about it, and 178 people have visited it. The page acts as a very effective tool for sharing information.
The Presque Isle Police Department offers resources for those wanting to learn more about the department's activities. The "Citizens Explorer Program" provides insights into law enforcement and offers valuable credits to students. Parking tickets can be paid at the department, and payments must be made within 48 hours. Accepted forms of payment are credit/debit cards or checks; cash is no longer accepted. Comprehensive traffic and parking regulations are available to ensure public understanding and adherence to traffic laws. The department also collaborates with the Department of Innovation & Economic Community Development, reflecting a comprehensive approach to community improvement.
The city of Presque Isle, and the Presque Isle Police Department are dedicated to ensuring that the city's residents are safe. The Presque Isle Police Department is a vital institution in Presque Isle, Maine. Its leadership, the services it offers, and its engagement with the community, along with its attention to modernization, make it a key player in maintaining safety and order in the community.
.jpeg)
