In Bath, Maine, two law enforcement officers who were previously united when under scrutiny for their actions regarding an Army reservist responsible for a mass shooting are now in a political showdown to become sheriff. Sagadahoc County Sheriff Joel Merry, a four-term Democratic incumbent, and his Republican opponent, patrol Sgt. Aaron Skolfield, are both striving to distance themselves from the tragic shooting that led to the deaths of 18 individuals and the injury of 13 others. Nonetheless, the upcoming one-year commemoration of the event will unavoidably tie their campaigns to the incident just before Election Day.
Skolfield faced backlash from an independent commission led by Democratic Governor Janet Mills for not utilizing Maine’s yellow flag law to intervene in Robert Card’s deteriorating mental health situation and restrict his access to firearms. Skolfield defended his actions during the welfare check at Card’s residence in Bowdoin, stating that the law necessitated a face-to-face encounter, which was impossible as Card refused to answer the door. Card later carried out the shooting in Lewiston, a neighboring county.
Merry, as Skolfield’s superior, also came under scrutiny for the incident but sympathized with the challenges faced, highlighting that he supported Skolfield to the best of his ability. The Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office comprises 20 full-time officers in a jurisdiction spanning 370 square miles and serving over 37,000 residents.
Despite stating that his current term would be his last, Merry, aged 66, expressed a desire to achieve more following personal setbacks and the tragic events of the past year. He emphasized initiatives to enhance mental health services and create a mental health and resiliency program for deputies within the county.
In contrast, Skolfield implied that it was time for Merry to step down, citing the need for fresh perspectives in leadership. Supporters of Skolfield praised his results-driven approach and candid demeanor, asserting his suitability for the sheriff position. Skolfield criticized Governor Mills for politicizing the race and defended his actions regarding the welfare check, alleging that crucial details were omitted from the commission’s report.
The influence of the shooting incident prompted changes in the enforcement of Maine’s yellow flag law, with its increased utilization state-wide post-tragedy. Both candidates acknowledged the necessity for legislative adjustments following the shooting and recognized the challenge facing voters in determining the best candidate on Election Day, with many distracted by national politics.
Vicki Sprague, an undecided voter, highlighted the general admiration for law enforcement agencies in the area but expressed concerns over the handling of the previous tragic event. The candidates continue to campaign with contrasting approaches, each seeking to convince voters of their ability to lead the county sheriff’s office effectively in the aftermath of the devastating mass shooting.
