Maine Bureau of Capitol Police – Augusta, ME

About the Maine Capitol Police

The Bureau of Capitol Police is a specialized law enforcement agency within the Maine Department of Public Safety. Headquartered in the Burton M. Cross Building at 111 Sewall Street, this agency is primarily responsible for the safety and security of Maine’s seat of government. Their jurisdiction includes the State House, the Cross Office Building, and other state-owned properties within the Capitol Complex and Augusta area.

Roles and Responsibilities

While they possess statewide law enforcement authority, the Capitol Police focus on the unique needs of the government campus. Their key duties include:

• Site Security: Managing security screening at public entrances to the State House and other critical facilities, utilizing metal detectors and X-ray machines to prevent prohibited items from entering.
• Patrol: Providing 24-hour police presence and patrol for state properties, including the East Side Campus (formerly AMHI) and Riverview Psychiatric Center.
• Parking Enforcement: regulating and enforcing parking rules in state-owned lots and garages around the Capitol.
• Emergency Response: Responding to alarms, medical emergencies, and disturbances within government buildings.

Security Screening and Access

Visitors to the State House or the Cross Building should be aware of strict entry protocols. All public visitors must pass through airport-style security screening. Prohibited items include all weapons (firearms, knives), pepper spray, and sometimes even scissors or tools. The Capitol Police officer stationed at the kiosk provides guidance and security for legislators, employees, and tourists alike.

Availability

The administrative office in the Cross Building operates during standard business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM). However, as a full-service police agency, officers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency on state property, they can be reached immediately via the regional dispatch or by dialing 911.