CUMBERLAND – The Cumberland Police Department should soon be at its full budgeted complement of 50 sworn police officers, says Chief Matthew Benson, who says the town should ideally have more officers than that filling key functions.

Providing highlights on the department’s annual 2024 report to the Town Council on Aug. 20, Benson described “another proud year,” one that included more notable events to interact with the community, achieved goals such as a completed drone program and expanding the vehicle fleet, and standout professional standards, with a single sustained complaint initiated by the administration.

One goal in 2024 was to hire three officers to get to 50 sworn staff. The goal was achieved, but there has since been one retiree and one lateral resignation.

From 40 total app

See Full Page