In response to allegations that some of his officers arrived at a mass shooting scene reeking of alcohol, Cumberland County Sheriff Kevin Joyce issued a statement denying all claims. The allegations arose from a Portland police after-action report following the deadliest mass shooting in state history on October 25, 2023, in Lewiston.
Sheriff Joyce emphasized that all officers were either on duty or had just completed training before being requested for assistance by Lewiston police. He refuted claims that his officers had been drinking, attended a funeral, or dispatched themselves without orders.
During the chaotic response to the shooting, a Cumberland County tactical vehicle nearly collided with a Portland vehicle near the gunman's location. The driver of the Cumberland County vehicle, identified as a police officer, had been on duty in his municipality before reporting to the scene.
The Portland special response team leader reported smelling “intoxicants” from the occupants of the Cumberland County vehicle. They allegedly mentioned coming from a funeral and responded ambiguously when asked about their dispatch to the scene.
Sheriff Joyce expressed disappointment at having to address what he termed as “unfounded allegations” that surfaced months after the incident. He stated that he was unaware of any potential misconduct during the response or in the weeks following the mass shooting.
Despite the controversy, Sheriff Joyce affirmed his confidence in his staff's professionalism and sobriety during the response to the mass casualty event. He commended his team for their actions and response on the tragic day in Lewiston.
