Marsy's Law for Maine Statement on Murder of Somerset County Deputy Sheriff Eugene Cole

All of us at Marsy’s Law for Maine send our sincerest condolences to all who are impacted by the senseless murder of Somerset County Deputy Sheriff Eugene “Gene” Cole, who was taken from his friends, loved ones and community last month in Norridgewock. Corporal Cole was the first Maine law enforcement officer to be killed in the line of duty in nearly 30 years. 

The many tributes to Corporal Cole describe him as an officer of “impeccable integrity,” with “basic empathy for people.” Thousands attended a memorial service for him on May 7, including 3,000 members of law enforcement from around the country. Somerset County Sheriff Dale Lancaster said, “People trusted Gene. Gene would always listen,” and said Corporal Cole exemplified “integrity, respect, fairness, and dedication.”

To everyone from whom Corporal Cole was taken on April 25, our hearts are with you as you grieve the tragic loss and the end of watch of your honorable, esteemed and tremendously respected son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, neighbor and fellow officer. Corporal Cole will never be forgotten.