BRIDGTON – After fives months of searching, the town of Bridgton will officially swear in a new police chief at the end of the month.

The new chief, Kevin Schofield, has 25 years of law enforcement experience and is currently the support services commander for the Brunswick Police Department. He serves as the department’s Criminal Investigation manager as well as the manager of the Emergency 911 and Records Division.

“We are pleased, and proud with our decision,” said Town Manager Mitchell Berkowitz. “We cannot wait for Kevin to start.”

Schofield shared the sentiment.

“I am very excited about this opportunity,” said Schofield. “I am going to enjoy working in the Lakes Region area. There is a high level of energy in this department. It seems to be a very tight-knit organization and I’m looking forward to becoming part of it.”

Over 20 applicants applied for the position that was vacated in November when then-chief David Lyons handed in his resignation to take a job with the U.S. State Department as a negotiator in Kabul. He is currently working in Afghanistan.

Immediately after Lyons resigned, a hiring committee was formed that consisted of two police chiefs, two Bridgton selectmen, three Bridgton residents, the town manager and his executive assistant. After interviewing several of the candidates throughout January and February, Schofield was a clear stand out, Berkowitz said.

“We chose Kevin because of his 25 years experience, his diverse skill sets and his ability to run and supervise a much bigger team than we have here,” said Berkowitz. “He also has a nice personality. He is a professional’s professional all the way through.”

The town of Bridgton currently has eight police officers, including the chief, on staff.

“I plan on becoming really involved in this community and having the community members know me,” said Schofield. “I really enjoy that aspect of the job and I look forward to becoming part of the Bridgton community.”

Kevin Schofield