Former Deputy Will Face Portland Trial Next Week
Brian Smith, a former Cumberland County deputy, is set to stand trial on theft and burglary charges in Portland.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Crime — General
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Former Cumberland County sheriff's deputy Brian Smith will face a criminal trial in Portland starting next week. He faces charges following his late 2024 indictment for allegedly stealing more than $10,000.
Why it matters
The case highlights the serious legal consequences for law enforcement personnel accused of misusing confidential database access to commit financial crimes. This trial marks a critical step in the judicial process for the former deputy who resigned from his position in August 2024.
Brian Smith, age 39, faces charges of theft and burglary following an indictment in late 2024. The case stems from his 12 years of employment at the Cumberland County sheriff's office.
The players
Brian Smith
He is a former Cumberland County sheriff's deputy who served for 12 years before resigning in August 2024.
Andrew Ward
He is a man charged with stalking and criminal invasion of computer privacy who previously worked for a police department in Buxton, Maine.
The details
Smith allegedly accessed restricted law enforcement databases to acquire personal information, which he then used to steal financial assets. Separately, Andrew Ward faces charges for stalking and the misuse of a Bureau of Motor Vehicles system to monitor his ex-partner.
Timeline
August 2024: Brian Smith resigned from his position at the sheriff's office.
Late 2024: Brian Smith was indicted on charges of theft and burglary.
Next week: The criminal trial for Brian Smith is scheduled to begin in Portland.
October 2026: Andrew Ward is scheduled for his own separate trial.
Legal Context
These proceedings reflect a broader judicial focus on the misuse of public trust and government databases by those granted authorized access. Such cases are prosecuted under the Maine criminal code statutes regarding theft and invasion of computer privacy.
The upcoming trial and legal proceedings serve as a reminder of the security protocols governing access to personal information in public databases. Residents of the area may monitor court updates as the judicial process determines the outcome of these serious charges.
The takeaway
These cases emphasize the legal ramifications for public employees who abuse their access to sensitive government systems. Maintaining integrity in law enforcement remains a priority for the judicial system when handling allegations of financial and privacy crimes.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings in the region, visit the Portland Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Portland Press Herald.
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Should law enforcement agencies implement stricter oversight for officers accessing private databases?
