Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office – Portland, ME

County Law Enforcement and Corrections

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, headquartered at 36 County Way in Portland, is a historic and essential law enforcement agency serving Maine’s most populous county. Established in 1760—six decades before Maine even achieved statehood—it holds a deep legacy of public service. The agency provides comprehensive public safety services, including a Patrol Division that covers 14 towns without their own police departments, offering 24/7 emergency response. The Sheriff’s Office also manages the Cumberland County Jail, a major correctional facility located adjacent to the administrative building, and oversees the Regional Communications Center which handles 911 dispatching for numerous communities.

Key Divisions and Services

Beyond basic patrol, the Sheriff’s Office operates several specialized units designed to address specific community needs:

• Civil Process: Deputies serve legal documents such as subpoenas, writs, and protection from abuse orders throughout the county.
• Criminal Investigations (CID): A team of detectives investigates serious felonies, including homicides, sexual assaults, and major property crimes.
• Court Security: The office ensures the safety of judges, staff, and the public at the Cumberland County Courthouse.
• Specialized Teams: Includes a Dive Team, K-9 Unit, and a tactical Special Reaction Team (SRT) for high-risk situations.

Visiting the Administrative Office

The main lobby at 36 County Way handles administrative requests such as obtaining accident reports, filing non-emergency complaints, and processing concealed handgun permits. Records and Permits: Residents visiting for permits or records should bring a valid government-issued ID. While the jail operates continuously, administrative business is conducted during standard weekday hours. Parking is available in the lot directly in front of the building. The facility is located off Congress Street, near the Fore River Parkway, making it easily accessible by car or local transit.