Sheriff: Annual staff awards recognize great work at YCSO
- Tammy L Wells
- 21 minutes ago
- 5 min read
ALFRED, Maine - An elderly man with dementia wandered into a garage and climbed to the second story, where the only “floor” was planks placed across the support beams. It was unclear whether he intended to harm himself or if he was merely confused, investigators said. He wielded a shovel and threatened to strike York County Sheriff Deputy Levi Johnson. When the man was distracted, Johnson was able to safely bring him to the ground floor.
In another situation, Sgt. Mathieu Nadeau and Deputy Duane Fay saved the life of a young woman who was threatening suicide – she was preparing to jump from a second story window when the two longtime law enforcement officers intervened.
Now-retired Deputy Jason Solomon was responding to a disturbance when he noticed a vehicle on the roadside and the driver slumped in the seat. He stopped, thinking it might be related. The man had about two dozen stab wounds, and was driving himself to the hospital when he felt faint. Without Solomon's intervention, the man would have perished, said Sheriff William L. King Jr.
Those situations – for which lifesaving awards were given – were among many accounts of how members of the York County Sheriff’s Office Police Services, Corrections Division and Civil Process divisions did the hard work – and were recognized for it on Friday, March 6 at the YCSO Annual Awards Ceremony.
“Preparing for these events is a humbling experience because I learn of, or am reminded of the great work we do on a regular basis,” said King. “Having these ceremonies is my greatest pleasure as the sheriff.”
There were commendations, meritorious awards, the Mat Baker Awards, a promotion, a graduation recognition for members of the Citizens Police Academy, a nod to outgoing and incoming members of the York County Jail Board of Visitors, a shout out to community members, recognition of retirees, and officers and deputy of the year.
Johnson received a commendation in addition to a lifesaving award and is the York County Sheriff’s Office Deputy of the Year for 2025 – King noted Johnson’s sustained superior performance over his 12 year career, crime solving abilities, investigative skills, and the calming effect he brings to any situation.
“You never lose your composure,” King said as he made the award.
Ellis Mattison was named Corrections Officer of the Year. “He is a true leader in the jail,” said King, “He Issues many safety bulletins, stays current in corrections issues, and keeps the staff abreast of any changes.”
Natalia Morneau is Reserve Corrections Officer of the Year, recognized as a subject matter expert on video arraignment, and assists with assuring inmates attend required court appearances.
Sgt. Kyle Kassa received a meritorious award for solving series of incidents where firearms were at homes and properties in Lebanon and Acton from a moving vehicle. In one case, a homeowner found 24 bullet holes in the siding on his home. In another, a bullet entered a bedroom where an infant was sleeping. The child was not injured.
Kassa, Chief Deputy Jeremy Forbes, Detective Steven Broy, Deputy Evan Sousa, Groundskeeper Luke O’Brien and Administrative Clerk Jenny Miller all received commendations.
Sgt. Matheu Nadeau received a meritorious award for sustained superior performance by ensuring all deputies are current with their trainings and are notified of any changes in law, said King.
Brian Maddox, who retired a couple of years ago after a 40-year career at York County Jail was recognized for his service. “From the old jail on route 111 to our current facility, he was there mentoring younger corrections officers,” said King. “He spent his career keeping his colleagues and inmates safe – he continues that role,” noting Maddox’s work as a judicial marshal at York Judicial Center in Biddeford.
David Francoeur, who recently retired after 28 years at York County Emergency Management Agency was recognized by the sheriff’s office. EMA and the sheriff’s office often work closely together- and King noted Francoeur remains a volunteer with EMA.
Deputy Shawn Sanborn was recognized for his 20 years of service and what will be a brief retirement – Sanborn will return to YCSO in a new county program that allows retired individuals to continue working – a plus for both the retiree and the agency – which King said will benefit from having an experienced deputy aboard.
Travis Jones has been a deputy for 25 years and is now sporting a new rank – sergeant. Jones has been an informal leader in the patrol division, filling roles of officer in charge, field training officer, and as an acting sergeant.
Others marking significant years of service were, from the patrol division Kyle Kassa, 20 years; Troy Chenard, Duane Fay and Darren Cyr, 15 years; and Cody Frazier and Paul Mitchell, each with 10 years. At York County Jail, Lieut. Cindy Sanborn is marking 25 years, Adam Boynton 10 years and John Nardelli, five years.
There were three recipients of the Mat Baker Award. Baker was Chief Deputy from 2006 until his passing in 2012. The recipients are Corrections Officer Keith Merrifield, David Pratt and Stacy Thistlewood who throughout the year make an extraordinary effort toward the success of York County Sheriff’s Office.
The Sheriff’s Office noted the work of Bob Kirton of Shapleigh Rescue in assisting his town and others. As well as his duties as a clergyman, Chaplain Kirton wears many hats: Rescue Driver, EMT, and more, including a situation in Acton, where he assisted deputies after a local man passed away. The man’s widow had dementia, and no family nearby. Kirton stayed until family members could arrive.
Former deputy James Webber worked for several police departments and York County Sheriff’s Office. He was injured on the job many years ago and did not return, and was belatedly recognized for his work.
Outgoing York County Jail Board of Visitors members Janet Drew, Sarah Johnson, Pastor David Corbett and Cheryl Dearborn Mills were thanked for their service, as was Susan Wiswell, who volunteered to stay on with incoming BOV members Kenneth Blow, Gary Prolman, Nicole Butler, Deborah Hamilton, Charlyce Goodwin and Matthew Baron. Drew and Johnson will continue as advisory members.
Jessica Peck-Lindsey sang The National Anthem, accompanied by Civil Deputy Rosario Cordolio on trumpet. Aurelia Lindsey led the Pledge of Allegiance, while Chaplain Trent Boyd gave the invocation.
