And now, they're deputies
- Tammy L Wells
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
YCSO recruits take oath of office, receive credentials
York County Sheriff’s Office recruits Matthew Ryan and Lucas Labbe were sworn in by York County Manager Greg Zinser and presented their credentials by York County Sheriff William L. King Jr., in ceremonies on Wednesday, Aug. 5.
And now they are deputies.
“We really hit the jackpot with these two,” said King.
Ryan, 25, and Labbe, 41, were hired as recruits at York County Sheriff’s Office earlier this summer – the first in more than a decade.
In taking the oath, the men each swore to support the Constitution of the United States and of the State of Maine, and to faithfully discharge the duties of Deputy Sheriff.
Typically, the agency has hired trained, experienced officers from other agencies who are looking for a change. But King and others within the agency saw a spark in Labbe and Ryan – genuine interest and the personality required to do the job.
“To be a deputy is a little different than a municipal police officer,” King explained to the friends, family and other deputies gathered to wish the new deputies well. He noted that in towns and cities, when back-up is needed, “help is 15 seconds away,” but in rural policing, it may be 15 minutes or more.
“Deputies are required to have a lot of public relations skills, deescalation skills, and a lot of confidence in themselves,” the sheriff said.
Labbe and Ryan have been riding along with seasoned deputies, learning policy and procedures and undergoing other training until they depart later this month for an 18-week residential law enforcement program at Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalboro.
Ryan who earned a degree in business, had no prior law enforcement experience, King said, and had worked in the hospitality industry – where one encounters people from all walks of life.
He took an interest in the Citizen Police Academies the sheriff’s office held in the spring of 2025 and 2026 – so much so he attended both.
“He listened,” at those academies, the sheriff said, “and we encouraged him to apply to be a deputy.”
King described Labbe as “a rock star.”
“We all knew him because he was the football coach at Massabesic High School – to get 11 young men to go in the same direction is astounding,” said King, illustrating Labbe’s leadership.
A U.S. Army veteran, Labbe served in Iraq in 2004 and later joined the Maine Army National Guard, where he continues to serve. He taught sociology, civics and government at Massabesic High School and previously worked in case management and shelter management. He holds a master’s degree in leadership studies.
Now, both men are pursuing their dreams.
“It’s incredible, it’s an honor,” to be sworn in and being presented with his credentials, said Ryan.
“It’s really awesome, prideful,” said Labbe. “I hope I can do right by everybody, and crush it at the Academy.”
“It’s a great day,” said King.
