Berlin Police Chief Asks Northfield for Payment Amid Policing uncertainty
NORTHFIELD, VT – Berlin Police Chief James Gosselin is seeking financial compensation from the town of Northfield to cover policing gaps stemming from the recent departure of Northfield’s police chief and ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of the department. The request, voiced during a recent selectboard meeting, highlights concerns about Northfield’s “murky” political landscape and the strain placed on Berlin’s resources as it continues to provide coverage.
Northfield has been without a permanent police chief since earlier this year when John Helfant surrendered his law enforcement certification. The town is currently advertising the position, but the process has been slow, with Town Manager Schulz remaining unresponsive to inquiries about applications and timelines. This void has led to increased reliance on mutual aid agreements, especially with Berlin, prompting Chief Gosselin to request compensation for felony-level cases his department handles within Northfield.
The discussion at the selectboard meeting centered on formalizing the existing service agreement between the towns and perhaps providing financial support to Berlin. Selectboard member Bill Morse confirmed that Helfant has recommended Matthew Romei, the current Norwich Police Chief and former Capitol Police chief, for the position.
Selectboard member Paul Pontbriand acknowledged the questions surrounding the situation, stating, “They have a lot of questions, which is fine and understandable.” Gosselin suggested a payment structure specifically for felony-type cases Berlin covers,while other board members emphasized the need to attract experienced and qualified candidates to rebuild the Northfield Police Department.
The situation underscores the challenges facing small Vermont towns in maintaining self-reliant police forces and the increasing reliance on regional cooperation to ensure public safety. The outcome of Northfield’s search for a new chief and its response to Berlin’s request will likely set a precedent for future inter-town policing agreements in the region.
