Lincoln County Sheriff Todd Brackett reported Dec. 6 about a detective’s impending retirement, a patrol sergeant becoming a detective, and a detective becoming a patrol sergeant. During the commissioners’ meeting, Brackett announced the retirement of Det. Terry Michaud, who has worked for the department for 14 years. Michaud will retire in February. He previously worked for the Maine State and Rockland police departments. 

Brackett also reported about other changes in the crime investigation division and patrol unit. Sgt. Jared Mitkus is moving from the CID to become a patrol sergeant. Mitkus  previously served as a detective. The new patrol sergeant is Scott Hayden, who recently served as a detective. Brackett reported the department still needs another patrol sergeant and detective. 

In other action, Brackett told commissioners he is hoping for more flexibility in seeking patrol vehicles. Earlier this year, the department had two hybrid patrol vehicles’ orders cancelled by Ford Motor Co. Brackett reported the department’s vehicle replacement plan has been upended by supply chain issues and skyrocketing inflation rates. He sought commissioners’ approval to forgo the traditional bid process in an attempt to secure three or four new cruisers over a two-year span. 

After missing out on the two ordered Ford SUV hybrid interceptors, the department made an emergency purchase of a gasoline-powered Ford SUV interceptor this fall. But Brackett is still concerned about future cruiser availability. He recently spoke to  Quirk Ford officials about SUV hybrid availability. The dealership told him it may have access to more cruisers in the coming months.

“I’m worried about availability and high costs,” he said. “The price now is about $38,000, and I’m thinking next year the price is going to be closer to $46,000. I’m not looking for a decision now, but I’m hoping for some future flexibility.” Commissioners asked Brackett to work with County Administrator Carrie Kipfer to work out a proposal and report back.

Commissioners authorized using $3,542.85 in drug forfeiture funds to buy three mini-drones for the sheriff’s department. Brackett reported the mini-drones assist in training exercises, search and rescue operations and surveilling indoor locations. 

Commissioners approved paying Coastal Electronics of Wiscasset $12,214.08 to equip two front-line cruisers. Commissioners also approved paying a $1,000 deductible for a cruiser repair. Brackett reported the vehicle had $6,803.03 in damages. 

The sheriff’s department is also using a fiscal year 22 federal grant to buy remote meeting equipment. Commissioners authorized using $3,084.15 from a Byrne Law Enforcement Grant to buy a Dell computer, projector screen, meeting owl, and a carrying case. 

Commissioners meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20 in the courthouse.