Sheriff to host forum on regional policing proposal

Key Takeaways:

• Sheriff Mark Anderson is launching a forum on a new regional policing proposal.
• Current law places law enforcement responsibility on towns and the state.
• Sheriff Anderson calls the existing system “piecemeal and patchwork.”
• Many towns and constituents reportedly want more comprehensive services.
• The article was published by Reformer.com on September 19, 2025.

Sparking a New Discussion on Regional Policing

Windham County Sheriff Mark Anderson is taking a bold step in rethinking how law enforcement is delivered to local communities. He plans to host a forum that will explore a proposal to unify policing efforts under a broader, regional system.

Assessing the Current System

“Under current law, only towns and the state are charged with providing law enforcement services,” Anderson explained, describing the limitations many communities face. This fragmented approach can leave some areas without the consistent coverage they need, prompting Anderson to question how effectively these individual jurisdictions can maintain public safety.

Why a Regional Approach?

The sheriff points out that “our constituents expect more” from law enforcement. In his view, the “piecemeal and patchwork” nature of current policing often falls short of residents’ needs. A regional framework could pool resources from multiple towns, potentially offering more reliable and cohesive police presence.

Looking Ahead

By hosting this forum, Anderson aims to bring together public officials, community members, and other stakeholders to exchange insights and concerns. Whether such a plan gains traction likely depends on the level of support local leaders and residents lend to the idea of a broader policing model. For now, Windham County awaits further details and outcomes from the upcoming discussions.