Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — The Presque Isle Police Department welcomed its newest officer Jan. 4, following the hiring of Cole Chandler, of Mapleton.
The 2001 graduate of Presque Isle High School and former Northern Maine Community College student is looking forward to his duties as patrol officer.
“I’m very interested in law enforcement and look forward to working with the department and learning more about the different tasks involved in being an officer,” said Chandler.
When asked how he became interested in law enforcement, Chandler credited his friends.
“I have a couple friends in law enforcement. They inspired me to join,” he said.
Chandler has already completed the 100-hour course, designed to prepare individuals interested in law enforcement for a career as an officer. His education will continue later this year when he attends the police academy downstate.
“I’ll be attending the academy in August. I’m looking forward to it,” said Chandler.
Asked if there was a particular field of study he’s most interested in, Chandler had a tough time deciding.
“I want to sample it all. I like all areas. I guess if I had to name one, it would be either crime scene investigation or accident reconstruction,” said Chandler.
Chandler said the decision to apply for the opening with the PIPD was made easier, thanks to family support.
“My wife approves of my decision to join. We talked about it and she’s supportive,” Chandler said.
So far, his training has found him at the station, learning dispatch duties. He’s also gone on several ride-alongs and is expanding his knowledge daily.
“I started in dispatch. Everyone starts there. After that, comes patrols,” said Chandler.
So far, Chandler said he likes his new job.
“It’s a good atmosphere and a great staff to work with,” said Chandler. “It’s a close group — one I look forward to being a part of.”
Chief Naldo Gagnon said Chandler fills a position left vacant, due to budget cuts last year, when Officer Shawn Newell left to take a position at the Fort Fairfield Police Department.
“We’re glad to be able to hire another officer. Cole is eager to learn and is a good fit at the department,” said Gagnon.
The PIPD will soon be looking to hire another officer, with the recent loss of Officer Ross McQuade.
“Ross had worked with the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office. The ACSO recently got some funding from Homeland Security that allowed them to add a position. Ross was hired to fill it, leaving us with one less officer. We’ll be looking to fill that position,” said Gagnon.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
COLE CHANDLER is the newest member of the Presque Isle Police Department, hired Jan. 4 to fill the position of patrol officer.