HOULTON, Maine — The Aroostook County Sheriff’s Department has promoted Ross A. McQuade to the rank of lieutenant.
He replaced Lt. Keith Wheeler who retired after 42 years with the department. (see related story.)
McQuade joined the Sheriff’s Office in 2008, after serving for a time at the Presque Isle Police Department. He was assigned as the domestic violence detective in 2011 and since April of this year, McQuade has been the acting patrol sergeant.
“I remember calling Ross up and telling him, ‘Look, we’ve got this grant, but I have to tell you it’s a two-year grant and if the money disappears, you will have to go too,” said Sheriff James Madore. “That was back in 2008. Ross has really stepped up to the plate and emulates everything we all should strive for. It is my privilege and honor to promote Ross to the rank of lieutenant.”
Madore quoted Harry S. Truman, stating “a leader has the ability to get people to do things they don’t want to do and make them like it.” Madore said his new lieutenant has that ability.
Barbara Hayslett, representing Congressman Mike Michaud’s office, read a letter the congressman sent to McQuade.
“I wish to extend heart-felt congratulations on your promotion to Lieutenant of the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Department,” Hayslett read. “It is a very well-deserved honor. Your years of service and history of exemplary leadership make you an excellent choice to assume this role.”
In his new role, McQuade will oversee the many deputies with the force and serve a greater administrative function. He is one of two lieutenants with the Sheriff’s Department. McQuade will serve as the law enforcement lieutenant.
McQuade said as his law enforcement career continued, he set a goal of obtaining a management position.
“It is always nice to help out and serve the citizens,” he said. “In some way, maybe I can give something back.”
He graduated from the state police academy in 1997, and worked at a state trooper for a year. In 1998, Ross returned to the family business, as manager of A.E. McQuade & Sons, Inc., one of the major general contractors based in Aroostook County at the time.
“Ross’ combination of public and private sector experience is exactly what we are looking for in this important leadership position,” said Deputy Chief Darrell Crandall. “He has significant post-academy training in the areas of criminal investigation, leadership and management.”
He lives in Mars Hill with his wife, Anne, and has two grown children.
