Sanford council accepts $1,627 in forfeited funds and a revolver from a narcotics seizure

The Sanford City Council on July 7 voted to accept proceeds from a criminal asset forfeiture tied to a narcotics-trafficking investigation that occurred March 30, 2023.

Deputy Chief Matthew Gagne described the stop that led to the seizure, crediting officer Archambault's situational awareness for identifying indicators of narcotics trafficking. "While conducting a proactive patrol to Quality Inn, officer Archambault...made a lawful traffic stop," Gagne said, and the subsequent investigation yielded digital scales, packaging, a loaded .38-caliber handgun and large quantities of suspected controlled substances. Gagne summarized seized quantities in the hearing: "Among the items seized were 3 18 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 2 0 2 grams of suspected fentanyl." He emphasized the public-safety rationale for reinvesting proceeds into law-enforcement training and equipment rather than returning funds to criminal actors.

Gagne requested council accept $1,627 in forfeiture proceeds and a .38 special revolver. Councilor Pete moved to accept the forfeiture; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Why it matters: Forfeiture proceeds are restricted by Maine law to legitimate law-enforcement purposes; the council's acceptance allows the police department to use these funds for training, equipment or investigations. The deputy chief framed the seizure as a removal of dangerous narcotics from the community and credited proactive policing for preventing further distribution.

Next steps: The police department will proceed with expenditure consistent with statutory limits and council authorization.