Some industry members say the conviction of Lucas Sirois puts legitimate cannabis businesses at risk. Prosecutors say law-abiding operations have nothing to worry about.
Joe Charpentier
Staff Writer
Joe Charpentier came to the Sun Journal in 2022 to cover crime and chaos. His previous experience was in a variety of rural Midcoast beats which included government, education, sports, economics and analysis, crime, and environment. He loves surprising his editors with spontaneous enterprising stories and prides himself on mastering the ability to slip the odd Oxford comma by the copy editors. When not on the beat, Joe enjoys spending time with family, writing fiction and woodworking.
How Maine residents can get the most out of their heat pumps
Homeowners are using heat pumps to cut fossil fuel use. But proper use and weatherization are key to maximizing benefits, experts say.
5 tips for an efficient heat pump
If used correctly, heat pumps can lower household costs.
Incentives, rebates still available, but federal heat pump help runs out Dec. 31
Homeowners must act quickly to use federal tax credits, though state programs will remain in place.
First 2026 refugees expected Nov. 24 as Maine’s annual arrivals drop significantly
The state’s resettlement total of 50 people is a 95% decline from last year, leaving Maine Immigrant and Refugee Services preparing for a far slower pace of arrivals.
Bail revoked for alleged leader of illicit Farmington marijuana operation
A federal judge ordered Lucas Sirois to be held in custody after he allegedly retrieved firearms and made threats while awaiting trial.
Farmington middle school principal’s ICE costume sparks backlash
Some say Mount Blue Middle School Principal James Black’s Halloween costume showed poor judgment. His family says it was a private photo that got blown out of proportion when it was shared online.
Efficiency upgrades promise payback for Maine homeowners
From insulation to heat pumps, contractors and officials say weatherization investments can return thousands in savings within just a few years.
Maine groups beating a path to millions in limited trails funding
Maine’s new $30 million trails program has drawn 105 proposals requesting over twice the first-year $7.5 million allocation.
Maine trims emergency heating assistance as COVID-era program runs down
The state Emergency Crisis Intervention Program now caps assistance at $500 amid dwindling pandemic relief funds and administrative strain.