Boothbay Harbor Police Officer Douglas Snyder graduated from the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s Basic Law Enforcement Training Program on Friday, Dec. 15. Snyder joined the BHPD as a full-time officer in October 2016. 

The basic law enforcement training course is a comprehensive 18-week course that covers all the aspects of police work, including proficiency with service weapons, firearms, emergency vehicle operation, mechanics of arrest, restraint and control and police investigation. Individuals must also demonstrate a high level of physical fitness. Boothbay Harbor Police Chief Bob Hasch said successful completion of the course is a requirement for all full-time police officers. 

“Officer Snyder comes from a nice family in western Massachusetts. He was stationed here in Boothbay Harbor at the Coast Guard station in 2002-2006, subsequently traveling all over the world as a dog handler for the Coast Guard. He always remembered this town and his expressed desire was to find full-time employment and live here. He really enjoys the people, the character of the area, and feels like he fits right in,” Chief Hasch said.

“Doug experienced a significant, severe injury while off duty, upon his initial run-up to the police academy. He showed tremendous perseverance, continually training alongside me and on his own to recover. His drive to accomplish this objective was awe-inspiring. We watched him struggle, but he never gave up. His willpower is exceptional, and we are very proud of him.

“Police work has been a dream of his for many years. The fact that he is able to perform his dream job in the area he always wanted to reside in makes for a nice combination.”