New game warden to patrol Patten area

    Six new Maine Game Wardens graduated from the 2012 Maine Warden Service Advanced Academy in Vassalboro. The training first includes attending the Maine Criminal Justice Academy for the Basic Law Enforcement Training Program to become certified as police officers. Additionally, game wardens attend the Advanced Warden Academy to continue with specialized training and learn skills pertaining to enforcement of recreational vehicles, crash investigations, search and rescue, public relations, and many other essential skills related to game warden work.
    Commissioner Chandler Woodcock and Colonel Joel Wilkinson addressed the graduating class and discussed the wide range of responsibilities and expectations of Maine’s newest game wardens. Maine Game Wardens have a long and proud history of conservation law enforcement here in Maine. Their work is considered among the most dangerous law enforcement careers in the nation. Maine has lost a total of 15 game wardens in the line of duty since 1880, more than any other branch of law enforcement in Maine. Although inherently dangerous, the career of a Maine game warden provides incredible opportunities and the ability to represent Maine and interact with those that enjoy her rich outdoor heritage.
    Members of the graduating class include Wardens Kim Bates, Cliff Littlefield, Paul Mason, Sarah Miller, Seth Powers and Troy Thibodeau. Game Warden Seth Powers
District assignment: Patten