Full Breakdown
Maine Lawmakers Question Public Safety Chief Over Excessive Force Lawsuits
1/9/2026, 8:54:39 PM
Overview of the Hearing
On Tuesday, August 29, 2023, Maine's Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck will face scrutiny from lawmakers regarding two excessive force lawsuits against the Maine State Police. This hearing aims to clarify the state's policies on the use and investigation of physical force by law enforcement. Lawmakers are considering potential changes to these policies in light of the complaints.
Background on Excessive Force Complaints
The Maine State Police has received 33 complaints of excessive force over the past decade. A notable case involves the violent arrest of Justin Savage in March 2024, where dash cam footage showed a trooper repeatedly punching him while he was handcuffed on the ground. Savage subsequently filed a lawsuit seeking $100 million in damages against the state police in September 2025. Another lawsuit was filed by a Chelsea woman, alleging that a trooper slammed her to the ground during her arrest in 2024.
Legislative Context
The hearing comes as part of a broader legislative effort to address police accountability and the handling of complaints against law enforcement officers. During a recent meeting, Sauschuck and Lieutenant Colonel Brian Scott outlined the procedures for managing complaints but were reticent about ongoing investigations, particularly regarding the Savage case. Sauschuck noted that the most severe consequence for an officer found guilty of misconduct is the revocation of their certification, which effectively ends their career in law enforcement.
Criticism and Opposition
Representative Nina Milliken, a Democrat from Blue Hill, expressed concerns over the promotion of the trooper involved in Savage's arrest while under investigation. She criticized the lack of transparency regarding disciplinary actions, stating, “It seems nonsensical to me that you would promote a trooper who was alleged to have beaten a man while he was cuffed.” Milliken emphasized the need for public access to disciplinary records to ensure accountability among officers tasked with community safety.
Official Statements
Sauschuck defended the department's policies, stating, “Depending on exactly what the situation is will depend on what lever you may be pulling to investigate something.” However, he refrained from discussing specific cases, including Savage's, citing the need to focus on policy and process rather than individual incidents.
What's Next
The outcome of the hearing may lead to legislative changes aimed at improving the investigation and accountability processes for excessive force complaints against law enforcement in Maine. Lawmakers are expected to deliberate on potential reforms following the hearing, which could reshape the state's approach to police conduct and public safety oversight.
This hearing represents a critical moment for Maine's law enforcement policies, as lawmakers seek to balance the need for effective policing with the imperative of accountability and transparency in cases of alleged misconduct.
