Sheriff Christopher Wainwright

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In 2023, Sheriff Wainwright was investigated for allegedly pressuring a deputy to show leniency to a woman who received a traffic citation. A leaked audio recording revealed Wainwright stating he had the authority to dismiss tickets and expressing frustration when the deputy reported the incident up the chain of command. Wainwright admitted to overstating his authority and using inappropriate language, and sought management training to improve workplace dynamics.

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[CBKN76]

In 2023, Sheriff Wainwright was found to have improperly sold dozens of guns from the evidence room without contacting the owners, potentially committing theft. The Oxford County commissioners unanimously voted to ask the governor to remove him from office. However, in May 2024, Governor Janet Mills decided not to remove Wainwright from his position.

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[CBKN76]

In 2023, it was revealed that under Sheriff Wainwright’s leadership, uncertified officers were allowed to work as school resource officers, carrying guns and badges without proper certification. This raised significant concerns about the safety and legality of such appointments.

[Return to blog post](https://watchaudits.com/sheriff-christopher-wainwright-oxford-county-sheriffs-office-3/)

[CBKN76]

In 2022, former sheriff’s clerk Joan Kelly filed a lawsuit against Sheriff Wainwright, alleging he violated her First Amendment rights by attempting to fire her for criticizing him and reporting misconduct within the agency. The lawsuit also claimed sex discrimination and defamation, stating that Wainwright treated male employees differently and retaliated against her for whistleblowing.

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