Laconia Police Department News & Updates: What's Happening Now
Is the safety and security of a community a shared responsibility? The Laconia Police Department, nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, is a testament to the power of community collaboration, demonstrating how a dedicated force, along with local and state agencies, works tirelessly to protect and serve its citizens.
The Laconia Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Matthew Canfield, provides essential services to the city of Laconia. Their commitment to public safety is evident in various aspects of their operations, from responding to emergencies to engaging with the community. The department's dedication extends beyond law enforcement, encompassing initiatives that foster trust and understanding between officers and the residents they serve. This collaborative spirit is highlighted by the department's partnerships with other law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical services.
On a significant note, the Laconia Police Department recently swore in four new officers during a meeting of the Police Commission at City Hall. The new recruits, Frank Heckler, Ethan Hutchinson, Domenic Petrafesa, and Parker Normand, were joined by Chief Canfield in this important step, demonstrating the department's commitment to growing its ranks and ensuring the community continues to have robust law enforcement.
The department's responsibilities are extensive, encompassing patrol, investigations, and community outreach. The Operations Division, under the leadership of Captain Finogle and Lieutenant Noyes, responds to over 26,000 calls for service each year. This division includes patrol officers and dispatchers who are the first point of contact for many residents seeking assistance. The department also has a Records Division, responsible for fulfilling requests for police reports, including investigative and accident reports.
The Laconia Police Department has faced challenges, notably related to recruitment and retention, which are common across the country. However, the department actively works to address these issues, including exploring new pay scales to make the department more attractive to potential recruits. Furthermore, they have also achieved high levels of accreditation, reflecting their commitment to professional standards and excellence.
The department's commitment to community engagement is also evident. Kindergarten and preschool students from Laconia Christian Academy recently visited the police department to tour the facilities. This interaction involved approximately 30 students who were divided into groups to meet officers, detectives, and administrative staff and view tactical vehicles, allowing them to learn about the different roles and responsibilities within the department.
The department also relies on support from other law enforcement agencies, local and state. The Guilford and Meth Police Departments, the New Hampshire State Police, the Laconia Fire Department, EMS, and the Bell County Attorney's Office are among those that have provided assistance and collaboration. This collaborative environment is key to effective policing.
The department is not without its internal challenges. In a recent case, the department sought public assistance in determining where a marker belongs, and who might have been involved in its removal, highlighting its willingness to be transparent and seek help. The Laconia Police Department's address is 126 New Salem Street, Laconia, NH 03246. Emergency services can be reached at the same address.
In the realm of legal matters, Attorney James Sawyer serves as the prosecutor for the Laconia Police Department, representing the victims of criminal acts and prosecuting those arrested or summoned for misdemeanor and violation offenses. The department's work in tackling crime, as shown by a recent drug raid at 12:30 p.m. after obtaining a search warrant Thursday afternoon, where nine individuals were charged following the raid and the police handled 332 service calls from noon last Tuesday and noon Monday, demonstrating its ability to deal with all kinds of situations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Department Name | Laconia Police Department |
| Location | Laconia, New Hampshire |
| Address | 126 New Salem Street, Laconia, NH 03246 |
| Emergency Contact | 126 New Salem Street, Laconia, NH 03246 |
| Chief of Police | Matthew Canfield |
| Operations Division Lead | Captain Finogle and Lieutenant Noyes |
| Prosecutor | Attorney James Sawyer |
| Primary Services | Patrol, Investigations, Records, Community Outreach |
| Number of Calls for Service (Annual) | 26,000+ (Operations Division) |
| Accreditation Level | One of the highest levels statewide |
| Recruitment Information | Multiple Career Opportunities |
| Website | Laconia Police Department |
The Laconia Police Department frequently updates its social media presence, with an official Instagram page providing information. The department's dedication to serving the community is evident in the variety of information that can be found about careers, crime statistics, and anonymous tip lines. The Laconia Police Department is committed to hiring dedicated people who want to make a positive impact in their community.
