Four Democratic Lawmakers Back Republican in Hancock Sheriff Race

Four Democratic state legislators have endorsed Republican Corey Bagley in the race for Hancock County sheriff, a cross-party move that has sharpened the contest, the Bangor Daily News reported on October 13.

Bagley, 57, is a detective with Ellsworth police and previously served as the county's chief deputy, leaving the sheriff's office in 2023 after 31 years. His opponent, Democrat Dakota Dupuis, 31, is a lieutenant in the sheriff's office who has run much of its daily operations since 2024. Sheriff Scott Kane is not seeking another term and has backed Dupuis.

A letter signed by three of the legislators, published in the Ellsworth American, faulted Dupuis for his ties to Kane and said the office's budget had been mismanaged, claiming a jump of more than $700,000 in 2025. Documents reviewed by the BDN showed the budget rose by $430,000 between 2024 and 2025.

Both candidates said they favor community policing and want a mental health liaison on staff. Bagley said about 14 officers have left the agency since 2023 and pointed to leadership as the cause. Dupuis said he has pushed to restore the office's role in the county's drug treatment court and registered as a Democrat in 2024.

Both said the sheriff's office has no role in federal immigration enforcement.

This story was first reported by Bangor Daily News.