Maine State Police Criticized for Withholding Essential Information in Deadly Shooting Manhunt
The Maine State Police are facing scrutiny and backlash after being accused of withholding critical information during a manhunt for a shooting suspect. The allegations of radio silence and lack of information-sharing have sparked controversy, with some claiming it hindered the progress of the investigation and endangered the community.
The incident in question occurred on October 25 when two deadly shootings took place at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine. Robert R. Card II, a 40-year-old individual from Bowdoin, was identified as the main suspect. Following the shootings, a 48-hour manhunt ensued, concluding with Card being found deceased in an unlocked truck trailer at a recycling center in Lisbon. State officials believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Androscoggin Sheriff’s Deputy Jon Guay, in a now-deleted Facebook post, accused the Maine State Police of failing to share crucial information with local law enforcement agencies such as the sheriff’s office and Lewiston police during the search for Card. Guay, a seasoned law enforcement veteran, claimed that the State Police kept major leads and investigative discoveries to themselves, with the rest of the agencies learning about them only through leaks.
Guay expressed disappointment in the State Police’s exclusion of local agencies from the information-sharing process, stating that this was an insult that would not be forgotten. He highlighted the effectiveness of networking between local officers and their knowledge of the county, underscoring the importance of collaboration. Guay’s post has garnered attention and raised questions about the State Police’s actions during the manhunt.
The Maine Department of Public Safety, responsible for overseeing the State Police, issued a press release defending their handling of the manhunt. They emphasized the dedicated efforts of hundreds of law enforcement officers involved in the operation, which included multiple agencies, air assets, and tactical teams. The department expressed disappointment in the comments made by Deputy Guay, stating that while he is entitled to his opinion, the command staff bears the ultimate responsibility for coordinating such complex operations.
Maine State Police Colonel William Ross addressed Guay’s allegations, asserting that they had to consider the safety of the community and law enforcement personnel. Ross emphasized that the operation involved an extensive network of agencies and highlighted the challenges of managing the risks associated with the manhunt.
It is crucial to note that State Police have jurisdiction over homicide investigations throughout Maine, apart from Portland and Bangor. However, the accusations made by Deputy Guay underscore the importance of effective communication and collaboration between agencies, especially in high-stakes situations.
The allegations against the Maine State Police have ignited a debate about the balance between information sharing and operational security. While some argue that the police had a duty to include local agencies in the information circle, others support the State Police’s cautionary approach given the circumstances. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement agencies face in coordinating large-scale operations and the importance of effective communication and information sharing to ensure the safety of the community and the success of investigations.
As the investigation into the Lewiston shootings continues, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the relationship between the Maine State Police and local law enforcement agencies. The case also highlights the ongoing need for transparent communication and collaboration among agencies to effectively address crimes and maintain public safety.
