DEXTER – A retired veteran of the Maine State Police has been hired as Dexter’s new police chief. He is the third police chief in Dexter’s history.

Arthur Roy, who served the state police for 22 years and is currently training coordinator at Bangor International Airport for the Department of Homeland Security, will begin his new duties in his hometown the second week of April.

“Mr. Roy brings to the position the experience, professionalism and dedication to law enforcement that will provide the quality leadership for the Dexter Police Department,” Town Manager Robert Simpson said. His salary was set at $43,000 and is subject to a 90-day review.

Roy was selected for the position after an extensive review of “many highly qualified candidates,” Simpson said Monday. The town received 18 resumes from throughout the country and Roy was one of three selected for a second interview. His selection was made final over the weekend, according to the town manager. “We are pleased to have Mr. Roy as part of our Dexter municipal team.”

His background and experience in law enforcement, budget management, public relations, personnel management and training management were of key interest to the Town Council. Roy holds a bachelor of science degree in public administration and an associate of science degree in criminal justice, business management and legal technology.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” Roy said Monday. “I’ve always enjoyed law enforcement.” He plans to have an open door policy, become active in the community, address concerns businesses may have and work closely with the youth and elderly in the town, he said.

Roy said Dexter has a good police force and he looks forward to working with the department.

His appointment follows the retirement of David Clukey, who served as chief for 25 years. The town’s first police chief was Harold Knox, who served for more than 25 years.