PARIS — The Oxford County Sheriff’s Office began law enforcement coverage for Mexico on Tuesday, Chief Deputy James Urquhart told county commissioners at their meeting Tuesday.
“Starting at 6 o’clock this morning, we assumed police responsibility over the town of Mexico,” Urquhart said. “We’ve absorbed the town of Mexico into our northern zone, or zone three.”
The Mexico department ceased operations Aug. 20 due to a lack of officers.
No contract between the town and the Sheriff’s Office has been signed, but there is communication with Mexico Town Manager Raquel Welch-Day, Urquhart said.
Commissioners approved hiring three new deputies Tuesday: former Mexico officers Derek MacDonald, who was a lieutenant, and Ashley Rich; and former Paris police Chief Michael Dailey.
Urquhart said MacDonald has been a “valuable asset” and that Rich is “highly respected.”
Dailey was hired at the highest rate possible under the current union contract — $29.42 per hour.
He resigned from the department last month, following a car chase and shootout with an escaped prisoner in May.
“Obviously, he’s a known commodity,” Urquhart said. “He left there. We’ve vetted that out.”
Urquhart noted that all three candidates passed background checks and were vetted by the Sheriff’s Office.
MacDonald previously worked for the Sheriff’s Office and left 18 months ago for the Mexico Police Department, Urquhart said.
“This should put you at full staffing,” Commission Chairperson David Duguay said.
Urquhart confirmed 24 positions are now filled.
The Sheriff’s Office will be closed Aug. 27-30 for installation of bullet-resistant security glass, he told commissioners.
Commissioners will hold budget committee caucuses in various locations across the county at 6 p.m. Aug. 28. Commissioners will next meet for a workshop at 9 a.m. Sept. 5.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is found on our FAQs. You can modify your screen name here.
Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve.
Join the Conversation
Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.