5 Key Ways The Windham Police Department NH Is Redefining Modern Community Policing In 2025

The Windham Police Department (WPD) in New Hampshire is proactively setting new standards for community-focused law enforcement as of December 23, 2025. Operating from its headquarters at 4 Fellows Road, the department, led by Chief Michael Caron, serves a growing population of approximately 16,100 residents with a commitment to integrating modern technology and mental health resources into traditional policing. The WPD’s recent focus, as highlighted in the available 2025 Annual Reports, emphasizes specialized units and deep community partnerships to maintain Windham’s reputation as a safe and thriving New Hampshire town. This article provides an in-depth look at the department's structure, the leadership driving its mission, and the five most crucial initiatives defining its operations today, including recent enforcement actions and forward-thinking programs like the new Drone Unit.

Meet the Command Staff and Department Profile

The Windham Police Department operates with a dedicated team of about 22 sworn officers, utilizing specialized training and units to cover the diverse needs of the community. The leadership team ensures that the department remains compliant with the highest standards set by the NH Police Standards and Training Council.

Windham Police Department Key Personnel and Profile

• Department Headquarters: 4 Fellows Road, Windham, NH 03087
• Population Served: Approximately 16,100
• Number of Officers: 22
• Chief of Police: Michael Caron
• Captain: Bryan Smith
• Community Service Officer: Jacob Hoag
• Specialized Units: Crisis Negotiations, Drone Unit, School Resource Officers (SROs)

Chief Michael Caron: A Focus on Modern Policing

Chief Michael Caron is the driving force behind the WPD's shift toward modern, technologically assisted, and community-integrated policing. His leadership is marked by a focus on transparency and advanced training for his officers. Chief Caron has been actively involved in state-level discussions, including his participation with the NH Police Standards and Training Council, which underscores his commitment to professional development and ethical practice within the department.

1. The Rise of the Windham Police Drone Unit

One of the most significant technological advancements within the department is the establishment of the Drone Unit, often referred to as Aerial Investigations. This initiative, which had been previously championed by former Chief Kevin Schofield, is now an operational reality that dramatically enhances the WPD's capabilities. The Drone Unit allows officers to conduct critical tasks safely and efficiently, including:

• Searching for missing persons in wooded or inaccessible areas.
• Documenting major accident scenes, such as the recent rollover crash on I-93, with high-resolution aerial photography.
• Providing real-time situational awareness during critical incidents or searches.
• Assisting the Fire Department with large-scale emergency response planning.

This program positions the WPD at the forefront of law enforcement agencies in New Hampshire embracing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology for public safety.

2. Integrated Mental Health and Crisis Response

The Windham Police Department has recognized the critical need for a non-law enforcement approach to certain crisis situations. This realization led to a vital partnership with the Center for Life Management (CLM). This collaboration ensures that when officers respond to a mental health-related call, they can access immediate, specialized support. This is directly tied to the state's NH Rapid Response Access Point and Mobile Crisis Response system, allowing for an acute care response that prioritizes de-escalation and clinical intervention over arrest. Furthermore, the WPD maintains a specialized Crisis Negotiations team, providing them with internal expertise for high-risk situations where a clinical partner may not be immediately available.

3. Proactive Substance Abuse Enforcement and Education

Combating the opioid crisis and substance misuse remains a top priority for the department. The WPD actively participates in the regional Substance Abuse Enforcement Program (SAEP). This program involves coordinated efforts with other local agencies, including the Derry and Londonderry Police Departments, to conduct targeted enforcement and interdiction. A recent example of this coordinated effort was seen during the Labor Day Enforcement Initiative on Interstate 93, where the WPD assisted State Police in processing arrests related to various violations, underscoring their commitment to highway safety and drug enforcement. The WPD also emphasizes prevention through its School Resource Officers (SROs), who work daily within the Windham School District to foster a positive environment and educate students on the dangers of substance abuse.

4. Robust Community Engagement and Public Safety Programs

The WPD understands that effective policing is a partnership with the community. They offer several popular programs designed to increase public safety awareness and build trust, with Community Service Officer Jacob Hoag often playing a central role in these initiatives.

Key WPD Community Programs:

• Vacation Patrol: A popular service where officers check on the homes of residents who are away on vacation, providing an added layer of security.
• Rape Assault and Defense (RAD) Training: The department periodically offers these self-defense courses for women, empowering residents with practical safety skills.
• Special Events Coordination: Working closely with the Town of Windham, NH, the WPD ensures safety and traffic management for all major community gatherings.

The availability of the 2025 Annual Report provides residents with a full statistical breakdown of the department's activities, including crime statistics and budget allocations, fostering a culture of transparency.

5. Commitment to Recruitment and Professional Excellence

To maintain its high standards, the Windham Police Department is continually focused on recruiting and retaining the best talent. The department offers competitive salaries and incentives, emphasizing the opportunity to join a modern agency with advanced capabilities. The job descriptions highlight the chance for new officers to train in specialized areas like the Drone Unit and the Crisis Negotiations team. The WPD's commitment to professional excellence is further demonstrated by its mandatory in-service training and the maintenance of a high ratio of officers to the population served, ensuring that the Town of Windham, NH, receives prompt and effective law enforcement services at all times. The department’s forward-thinking approach, blending technology, mental health integration, and deep community roots, ensures that the Windham Police Department remains a model for safety and service in the Merrimack Valley region.

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