To the Editor:
I tend to stay out of public frays and to keep my opinion to myself. I have, however, practiced as a criminal defense attorney in Damariscotta and Newcastle for nearly 17 years, which sometimes gives me a perspective shared by few others.
From that perspective, I have viewed the on-going actions regarding Chief of Police Steven Drake – including taking the time to watch the video of the selectmen’s meeting which apparently led to the Chief’s being placed on Administrative Leave. My understanding is that the selectmen intend to maintain that status until June and then not renew the Chief’s three-year contract.
In my role as defense attorney, there are of course times when any police officer and I disagree. The Chief is no exception. Such is the nature of our system. Under Chief Drake’s command, however, I have seen the Police Department advance significantly in its professionalism. The respect shown defendants, the quality of police work and of written reports have all greatly improved.
Police coverage is expensive. Whether or not the Town of Damariscotta needs local police coverage to the extent now enjoyed is a legitimate topic which should be discussed by the citizens and those responsible for the administering the Town budget. The result of suspending Chief Drake for a relatively minor emotional outburst is, unfortunately, to leave the Town Police force without the guidance and input of its most experienced officer.
In my opinion, a police officer should be subject to discipline for misconduct or repeatedly shoddy police work. I have not heard any of those concerns expressed in this matter.
I encourage any of you to voice your support of the Chief to the selectmen, then to continue a civil discourse about the topic of the cost vs. benefit of police protection.
William Avantaggio, Esq., Damariscotta
