Residents question Greenland hiring of police captain over prior DWI; chiefs and officials defend selection

Residents pressed the Greenland Board of Selectmen on July 13 over the recent hiring of Mark Connelly as police captain, citing concerns about a prior DWI and the transparency of the selection process.

Chief Wayne Bertogli described Connelly’s 30-year law enforcement career and said the candidate self-reported the DWI, accepted disciplinary penalties and completed an extensive wellness program. Bertogli said the Police Standards and Training Council sustained a violation but noted the candidate’s cooperation and rehabilitation.

Town Administrator Tara Tucker said the Police Department and the Board prepared a news release and encouraged residents to contact the department with questions. Tucker thanked Connelly for attending the meeting and for engaging with the community.

Several law enforcement colleagues, including local police chiefs and a U.S. marshal, spoke in support of Connelly’s qualifications and character during the meeting. Resident Brian Midura said, “It shows a lot of character to own your mistakes,” and another attendee criticized a social media post that shared the candidate’s personal information.

Board members emphasized the need for transparency in hiring public safety staff but described the candidate’s review and rehabilitation as part of the decision. No formal vote on the hiring was taken during this agenda item; the discussion was recorded and the Board encouraged continued questions to the Police Department.

The public comment period on the hiring concluded with the Board noting the candidate’s multi-jurisdictional experience, including service as a deputy in neighboring jurisdictions. The Board adjourned at 7:48 p.m.; no further action on the hire was scheduled at that meeting.