A federal judge ordered Lucas Sirois to be held in custody after he allegedly retrieved firearms and made threats while awaiting trial.
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.
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.
Despite challenges, Maine’s apple crop looks ‘excellent’
Orchardists say this year’s harvest is providing high-quality fruit despite uneven yields caused by a host of factors. However, there are worries for next year.
Expanded protections for Maine vernal pools, wildlife to get public hearing
The proposals, which come as the result of 2 recently passed laws, are aimed at protecting endangered and threatened species.
Feds cut funding for Maine high school program, citing diversity concerns
The program, which helps low-income students in central and western Maine get into college, ‘conflicts’ with the federal government’s goals, the Trump administration said.
Maine public water supply complies with law, but is it safe?
A national advocacy group says federal limits for three carcinogens found in tap water from public systems in Maine and across the U.S. are too low. Water districts say it’s not fair to expect ratepayers to fund improvements to meet its lower recommended levels.
Maine’s forests, yards and lakes under siege by invasive species
The state faces a growing threat from nonnative plants and insects that are reshaping its landscapes. Experts urge early detection and public vigilance.