Biddeford Police Chief to retire after 51 years of service

BIDDEFORD — Two long-term city employees have announced their retirement.

Police Chief Roger Beaupre is retiring on Jan. 25, 2023. Beaupre began working at the Biddeford Police Department in November 1971, after serving for four years as a sergeant in the U.S. Airforce. He became police chief in 1981.

Beaupre was instrumental in researching and implementing a city-wide radio communication system, adding school resource officers and creating a domestic violence investigative position that has been a model for departments across the state, according to a legislative sentiment he received late last year in honor of his then 50 years of service to the city. He also played a critical role in creating an opiate outreach initiative and adding a community engagement specialist to help people connect with local services, according to the award from the state legislature.

 

Biddeford City Clerk Carmen Bernier, left, stands with Secretary of State Shenna Bellows at the June 22 election in Biddeford. PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF BIDDEFORD

City Clerk Carmen Bernier will be retiring after 28 years of service to the city on Oct. 6. She has served as City Clerk for 15 years. Among her duties, she has overseen elections, prepared City Council meeting agendas and administered oaths.

The City Council was scheduled to discuss plans on recruiting replacements for both positions at a workshop session tonight.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.