CAMDEN — The Camden Police Department has a new patrol officer. Paul Thompson joined the department March 14, filling an open position that was previously held by Timothy Davis.

Thompson is a native of Boyerton, Pennsylvania, and came to Maine to attend the University of New England. He graduated with a degree in marine science. After college, his career was focused in retail sales with various managerial positions.

Thompson said that he has wanted to become a police officer for awhile.

“It’s a chance to serve the community and have a career that is meaningful and needed,” he said.

Members of his family have served in the military, in town government and with their local fire department. His grandfather was a volunteer firefighter in Hingham, Massachusetts, for more than 20 years.

Thompson said that he has found the Camden community to be accepting of his new role as a patrol officer.

“People are approachable, pleasant and are shaking my hand when I meet them,” he said.

He is primarily training with Officer Sam Butler, who is a field training officer, certified by the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vasselboro.

Thompson will be attending the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in January 2019 for his officer training.

Police Chief Randy Gagne said that with the hiring of Thompson, the Camden Police Department is fully staffed.

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com