Houlton Police want to know, ‘Are you up to the challenge?’

By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — The Houlton Police Department wants to know, “Are you up to the challenge?”
    The Department has instituted a new “Challenge Coin” program to reward citizens for doing good deeds.
    According to Houlton Police Chief Butch Asselin, each officer is provided with two challenge coins. One challenge coin is for the officer to keep while the other is for any good deed or act of kindness an officer witnesses that goes above and beyond what they typically see.
    Some examples of how individuals have already earned challenge coins are: reporting a serious crime the caller has witnessed that results in the apprehension of the alleged perpetrator; rendering aid to injured persons at an accident or fire scene until the police/ambulance arrives; recognizing a citizen for initiating a community project that helps people and improves their quality of life; and aiding an officer in need of assistance.
    “The officer can issue a coin to a person as a token of appreciation for their efforts,” the chief said. “It is a way the officers can immediately relate to members of the community by having a coin readily available to provide them.”
    After giving the coin away, the officer must document the transfer of custody of the coin in a report. Once the report is complete, it is forwarded to Chief Asselin to review. The officer is then provided a replacement coin to place in their pocket. The chief can also issue a coin to an officer whose actions on a particular event or investigation serves as recognition for an exceptional job well done.
    Back in September of 2009, the Houlton Police Department received federal stimulus funds and regular Byrne grant funds from the Department of Justice. As part of the grant process, the department was required to submit a budget proposal on how the funds would be expended. In HPD’s proposal, a portion of the money was to be dedicated to projects that promote community policing and enhance police public relations.
    “The department’s proposal was approved and one project I had in mind for the community was challenge coins,” the chief said. “From time to time, citizens become involved with the department’s officers. There are occasions when these interactions exceed the officer’s expectations. Providing a challenge coin is just one way the department can show its appreciation and recognize people for their contribution. The Houlton Police Department appreciates the community’s support and wanted a way that quickly shows our gratitude.”
    Commemorative or challenge coins are not a new concept for police departments, but they are a new project for the HPD. Chief Asselin designed the coin and it was created by Symbol Arts of Utah. Several changes were requested before the final coin design was accepted. The coin is 1.75-inches in diameter. A limited number of coins were purchased. One side of the coin displays a badge and above the badge are the words “Houlton Police Department.” Below the badge are the words, “Making a Difference.” The reverse side of the coin depicts the HPD shoulder patch with the words “Honor, Integrity and Courage” encircled in the patch.
Editor’s Note: The first series of Challenge Coin recipients are listed on Page four and Five