AUGUSTA — The city’s police department on Thursday recognized two new officers as the force draws closer to full strength following the reshuffling of key positions.

Carly Smith and Adam Moody, both Maine natives, were recognized at a ceremony at the police department. Both are expected to begin 18 weeks of training Tuesday at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalboro.

“Smith and Moody are both extremely bright, intelligent and energetic individuals,” said Deputy Chief Jared Mills. “They both have a strong willingness to help people as a quality trait along with the standard honest, hard working and high integrity.”

The recognition of the new officers came just a few days after Police Chief Robert Gregoire completed his first year on the job, a year that Mills said has been marked by improvement. Gregoire, the former deputy chief, was chosen for the top job after former Chief Wayne McCamish retired in 2010.

Earlier this year, city officials debated whether to eliminate the deputy chief position, as was recommended by a team of consultants, but ultimately decided keep it.

“It is the general consensus of the entire department that Chief Gregoire is moving our department forward in a positive direction,” Mills said. “He has shown a commitment to developing staff through overall training, leadership training and mentoring.”

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Smith and Moody are the fifth and sixth officers to join the force since November 2010.

Smith, originally from Norway, graduated from Edward Little High School in Lewiston before studying at Suffolk University in Boston and the University of Maine, where she received a bachelor of science degree in business administration. She was officially hired Aug. 15 and has completed the training process, Mills said.

“Smith brings the female dynamic into police work, which is an asset everyday under many circumstances,” Mills said.

A Brunswick native, Moody graduated from Gardiner Area High School and received a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from Thomas College in Waterville. Moody is in the training process. Moody’s brother, Aaron Moody, is a Kennebec County Sheriff’s deputy.

In other police changes, dispatcher Aaron Ferrell, who has worked at the department since 2002, was recently promoted to lead dispatcher. Ferrell will be responsible for overall quality control and operations and will act a liaison between Augusta police and state Emergency Medical Services, Mills said.

“Aaron will assist the division commander to ensure that the dispatch center is operating as effectively and efficiently as it possibly can,” Mills said.

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Gregoire has established that mission throughout the department, Mills said. Part of that effort has been finding ways to reduce calls for service at state and county facilities, which has allowed officers to focus more attention on problem areas within the city, Mills said.

“His goal is to have the best trained, educated and qualified officers serving the city of Augusta,” Mills said.

Craig Crosby — 621-5642

ccrosby@centralmaine.com


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