Governor LePage Issues Statement on the Downeast Correctional Facility

March 19, 2018

For Immediate Release: Monday, March 19, 2018
Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, Press Secretary, 207-287-2531

AUGUSTA ? After a court order recognized the Maine Department of Corrections has the authority to operate Downeast Correctional Facility as it deems appropriate, the department is adjusting operations at the facility.

?I met with Commissioner Fitzpatrick this morning,? stated Governor LePage. ?He has informed me that he will comply with the court?s order and will do so in the most fiscally responsible manner by the end of the week.?

Since funding for Downeast Correctional Facility runs out in June, the Maine Department of Corrections will operate the facility with minimal staffing and a minimal number of inmates, and continue preparations to close the facility when the appropriation expires.

Operating the facility in a minimal capacity allows the department to comply with the court order, to meet the needs of the Department, to continue saving money for Maine taxpayers and to keep it operating through June.