Police chief requests 1-year leave of absence

MACHIAS – Police Chief Steve Ramsey has asked the Machias Board of Selectmen to grant him a one-year leave of absence so that he can serve as an international police monitor.

Ramsey confirmed on Wednesday that he announced his request to selectmen at the end of Tuesday’s annual town meeting and that selectmen asked him to put his request in writing. Ramsey, who plans to leave for his overseas assignment in two weeks, distributed a written request to selectmen on Wednesday.

He did not disclose where he would serve.

Ramsey said if selectmen do not grant his request for a leave, he will have no other option than to resign.

“I have 15 years of experience between the military and [being] a law enforcement civilian,” Ramsey said. “There is a need for trained civilian police officers from this country to go to other countries who need our assistance.”

Ramsey said he will begin taking accumulated vacation as of next Monday.

He has worked for the Machias Police Department for seven years and has served as chief for the last two years.

Town Manager Christine Therrien said she hopes selectmen will be able to consider the police chief’s request for a leave of absence on Monday, following the recount of the vote for Machias selectmen.