Knowledge Center
News & Blog
Welcome to Dirigo Safety, LLC’s blog and news page!
Here, you’ll find the latest updates and information relevant to law enforcement in Maine and New England. We cover various topics, including mental health, trends, and best practices in the field.
Our goal is to provide valuable resources and support to law enforcement professionals and those interested in staying informed about the latest developments in the industry. Thank you for visiting, and we hope you find our content helpful and informative.
Police Law in a Nutshell: Qualified Immunity for Law Enforcement
What It Is Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine established by the U.S. Supreme Court that shields government officials, including law enforcement officers, from personal lawsuits seeking monetary damages unless they violate “clearly established” constitutional or...
Police Law in a Nutshell: The New Law Limiting State and Local Support of Immigration Enforcement
Introduction LD 1971, “An Act to Protect Workers in This State by Clarifying the Relationship Between State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies and Federal Immigration Authorities,” takes effect in mid-July 2026 (specifically, 90 days after the current legislative...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Deadly Force Review Panel
By Brian MacMaster The creation of the Deadly Force Review Panel was the result of legislation passed in 2019. The original bill, introduced by Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos of Friendship, called for an independent board to review investigations of all officer-involved...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Some Retrospective Observations from Over 50 Years of Policing
While the tools and procedures have evolved, the principles of diligent, thoughtful policing and the importance of clear communication have remained constant. Having been in law enforcement for 55 years, I have often been asked about the differences in policing...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Vehicle Stops – When Does the Seizure End?
By Brian MacMaster Vehicle Stops Constitute Seizures Vehicle stops make up a significant part of any patrol officer’s duties. The law surrounding vehicle stops, especially the extent of an officer’s permissible actions and the authorized duration of a stop, is not...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Guidelines for Release of Information
GUIDELINES FOR THE PUBLIC RELEASE OF INFORMATION IN CONNECTION WITH AN INVESTIGATION, INCIDENT, OR CRIME The release of intelligence and investigative information is governed by the limitations outlined in 16 M.R.S. § 804. Releasing such information requires...