When I attend public functions in Leeds, Livermore and Livermore Falls, I often find Androscoggin County Sheriff Guy Desjardins present. He communicates salient events occurring with his department and their impact on those rural communities. He is an articulate spokesperson who represents well the interests of law enforcement.

Desjardins is professional, knowledgeable and well-regarded by officials of these communities. Two of the towns do not have police departments and rely heavily on sheriff patrols. Livermore Falls has its own force. That department highly respects the sheriff and the collaborative efforts he brings to issues requiring joint efforts by police agencies.

Suggesting that he is “politics as usual,” indicates to me that the shop steward and some fellow police officers do not comprehend the importance of high visibility in the rural towns. His presence is a strong positive for the entire department and he should be praised, not criticized.

Rep. Gary Knight, R-Livermore Falls