Statement of Kate Simmons Regarding Law Enforcement's Use of Deadly Force in Cyr Plantation on April 23, 2010

April 26, 2010

On Friday morning, April 23, 2010, Trooper Robert Flynn of the Houlton State Police Barracks and two U.S. Border Patrol agents visited Neil Begin?s residence in Cyr Plantation as part of an investigation of a complaint involving Mr. Begin. Border Patrol agents frequently assist local and state law enforcement officials with investigations and enforcement actions in Aroostook County. The visit resulted in an armed encounter with Mr. Begin, and Mr. Begin was fatally shot. Mr. Begin was taken to Cary Medical Center, and then flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center where he died at 5:30 am on Saturday, April 24, 2010.

The Attorney General is charged by law with investigating any law enforcement officer who uses deadly force while acting in the performance of that officer's duties. The function of the Attorney General?s investigation is to determine whether self-defense or defense of others, or other legal justification as defined in the Maine Criminal Code, is reasonably generated on the facts so as to preclude criminal prosecution. The review does not include whether there might be any civil liability, whether any administrative action is warranted, or whether the use of deadly force could have been avoided at all costs.

At the conclusion of the Attorney General?s investigation, a complete report with factual details will be released.

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