WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus S. King, Jr. (I-ME) today visited the Lewiston Police Department in honor of National Police Appreciation week. Senator King joined Police Chief Michael Bussiere and Deputy Police Chief Jim Minkowsky for a tour of the facility and took time to speak to the officers and express his gratitude for their courageous service to the people of Lewiston and Maine.

“Our nation’s police officers serve their local communities bravely and selflessly. Day in and day out, they put themselves in harm’s way so that we can live our lives free of fear,” Senator King said. “I was proud to meet with the Lewiston Police Department today as we celebrate National Police Appreciation week. When fires raged two weeks ago, their swift and valiant response, along with that of Lewiston’s firefighters and other emergency personnel, saved both lives and personal property. I join with all Mainers in thanking Lewiston’s and Maine’s first responders and in honoring the memory of those who gave their lives to protect ours.”

“We want to thank Senator King for visiting the Lewiston Police Department during National Police Week and for his participation in our recognition of the LPD’s three fallen officers, Officer Wallace Moriarty, Officer Paul Simard, and Officer David Payne all of whom were killed in the line of duty while serving the citizens of Lewiston,” Lewiston Police Chief Michael J. Bussiere said. “Additionally, we appreciate the Senator’s concern over the recent devastating fires in downtown Lewiston and recognizing the efforts of the police officers, firefighters and other first responders who evacuated buildings and prevented the loss of lives.”

Following his visit to the Lewiston Police Department, Senator King joined with Lewiston City officials – including City Administrator Ed Barrett; Deputy City Administrator Phil Nadeau; Code Enforcement Deputy Director David Hediger; and Fire Chief Paul LeClair – for a tour of the damage inflicted by the set of fires that left approximately 200 people homeless. Mayor Bob MacDonald also met with Senator King following the tour.

“While the damage and destruction I witnessed is substantial, my visit this morning further proved an already well-known fact: that Lewiston remains a strong and resilient community, even in the face of great hardship,” Senator King said. “I stand in solidarity with the people of Lewiston, and I pledge to remain in communication with local officials to assist in any way I can.”

“As Mayor, I am very pleased that Senator King is taking time out of his busy Congressional schedule to connect with the City of Lewiston to learn first-hand what staff and residents have endured during the recent downtown fires,” Mayor Bob Macdonald said. “We appreciate that he wants to personally visit the fire sites and talk with staff to better understand our current status.”

“Senator King’s visit to Lewiston is positive news as we strive to recover from the recent public safety emergencies,” Lewiston City Administrator Ed Barrett said. “This community has been through a lot, and the Senator’s interest is encouraging.”

“As Chief, I am pleased that Senator King wants to visit the fire sites and communicate with municipal staff,” Lewiston Fire Chief Paul LeClair said. “Lewiston public safety personnel and its mutual aid responders have tirelessly worked to protect residents and property, and his concern about what we’ve been experiencing is gratifying.”

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