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Granite State Reporter, New York, NY (2025)

11/21/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

SILVER ALERT ISSUED FOR MISSING 62-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN CONCORD
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 21, 2024 15:46
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CONCORD, New Hampshire—A Silver Alert has been activated for 62-year-old Doreen Dennis, who was reported missing from her home on Allison Street in Concord on the morning of November 21, 2024. The alert, issued by the New Hampshire State Police at the request of the Concord Police Department, highlights the urgency of locating vulnerable individuals at risk.

Dennis was last seen at her residence on November 20 at 3 p.m., and it is believed she is on foot, as her vehicle was found at home. She is described as 5’4”, weighing 174 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes, though she is known to wear blonde and strawberry blonde wigs. At the time of her disappearance, Dennis was wearing red, white, and black pants, a black shirt, black sneakers, a black wool jacket, and a black fuzzy hat with purple stripes. Her family has noted she may be in the early stages of dementia, increasing concerns about her safety.

Law enforcement is requesting the public’s assistance in locating Dennis. Anyone who has seen her or has information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the Concord Police Department at (603) 225-8600.

UNDERSTANDING THE SILVER ALERT SYSTEM
The Silver Alert program is a critical tool for law enforcement, designed to locate missing adults who may have cognitive impairments or other vulnerabilities that place them at greater risk. Initiated in several states as a parallel to the Amber Alert system, Silver Alerts primarily assist in cases involving individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other conditions that may impair their ability to find their way home or communicate effectively.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately six in ten individuals with dementia will wander at some point, often placing themselves in dangerous situations. The rapid activation of a Silver Alert increases the chances of finding these individuals safely, leveraging public awareness and community involvement.

SILVER ALERTS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire’s Silver Alert system has been instrumental in locating missing adults, thanks to collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the public. Nationwide, data from the National Silver Alert Program shows that over 90% of individuals reported through these alerts are safely recovered within the first 24 hours, emphasizing the importance of immediate action and widespread communication.

For families and caregivers, resources like wearable GPS devices and proactive registration with programs designed to track and assist individuals with cognitive impairments can further enhance safety.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Source:
Concord NH Police Department

11/21/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

AIRPORT EMERGENCY: PILOT SAFELY EXECUTES LANDING
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 21, 2024 12:10
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www.GraniteStateReporter.com

CONCORD, New Hampshire–A 71-year-old pilot safely executed an emergency landing at Concord Municipal Airport on November 20, averting a potentially catastrophic incident.

Shortly before 11 a.m., state troopers from Troop D, alongside members of the Concord Fire Department, responded to reports of an aircraft crash. Upon arrival, responders discovered an experimental light-sport aircraft resting in a grassy area near a fence along Regional Drive. The sole occupant, identified as Dana Clow of Hillsborough, emerged uninjured.

According to the preliminary investigation, the aircraft experienced a critical mechanical issue shortly after takeoff. A door unexpectedly opened mid-flight, disrupting the plane’s aerodynamics and forcing it into a continuous left turn. Despite the challenge, Clow demonstrated remarkable composure and skill, managing to guide the aircraft over the airfield and land it in a grassy area north of a taxiway. While the landing damaged the aircraft’s landing gear, the pilot's quick thinking and adherence to emergency procedures prevented injuries.

SAFETY IN AVIATION: THE BIGGER PICTURE
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), while aviation remains one of the safest modes of transportation, incidents involving light-sport and experimental aircraft account for a significant proportion of accidents. In 2023, the FAA reported that experimental aircraft made up nearly 25% of general aviation flight hours but were involved in over 40% of fatal accidents in the category.

The New Hampshire Department of Transportation Bureau of Aeronautics, along with the FAA, will continue investigating this case to identify any contributing factors, whether mechanical, environmental, or procedural. Such investigations are critical in shaping regulations and improving aircraft design to mitigate risks.

PREPAREDNESS & PROTOCOLS SAVE LIVES
Aviation experts emphasize that routine safety checks, adherence to maintenance schedules, and thorough pre-flight inspections are crucial for reducing the likelihood of in-flight emergencies.

Moreover, pilots must remain prepared to adapt and respond under pressure. In this case, the pilot’s ability to maintain control of the aircraft despite compromised aerodynamics illustrates the value of experience and adherence to safety protocols.

AVIATION IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire has a robust aviation community, with regional airports like Concord Municipal serving both private and commercial interests. The state’s aviation infrastructure supports economic activity, which requires the need for continued investment in safety training, public awareness, and emergency response readiness.

As federal and state authorities review this case, the findings will likely contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance safety in general aviation.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
New Hampshire Department of Transportation
New Hampshire Department of Safety

11/21/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

DEADLY CRASH: STATE POLICE SEEK WITNESSES
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 21, 2024 12:00
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www.GraniteStateReporter.com

BOW, New Hampshire–A tragic crash on Interstate 93 in Bow has left one man dead and another individual seriously injured, raising renewed concerns about roadway safety in New Hampshire. The incident, which occurred at approximately 5:41 p.m. on November 20, involved two vehicles—a white sedan and a blue SUV—both of which were found on fire in the woods off the right side of the road.

According to New Hampshire State Police, the driver of the sedan, an adult male, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the SUV, an adult female, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Their identities have not yet been released, pending notification of family members and further investigation.

The New Hampshire State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Unit, along with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, has initiated an in-depth investigation. Preliminary reports suggest multiple vehicles were traveling at high speeds prior to the crash. Witnesses who have not yet spoken to investigators are encouraged to contact Trooper Noah Gooch at [email protected].

ROAD SAFETY IN FOCUS
High-speed accidents on New Hampshire roadways are increasing. In 2023, the New Hampshire Department of Safety reported 116 fatal crashes across the state, a 12% increase from the previous year. Excessive speed has consistently been a leading contributor to these tragedies, accounting for nearly one-third of fatal crashes nationally.

High-speed crashes are particularly dangerous because they reduce reaction time, increase the force of impact, and heighten the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities. Efforts to combat speeding through enforcement and public awareness campaigns have had mixed results.

CALL FOR WITNESSES & PUBLIC COOPERATION
The crash has temporarily closed two lanes of I-93 southbound near mile marker 32.4, causing significant delays. Authorities urge drivers to seek alternative routes and remind all motorists to exercise caution when traveling through active crash investigation zones.

Witness accounts are critical to piecing together the events leading up to the crash. Law enforcement is relying on the public’s assistance to provide details that could clarify the sequence of events, particularly concerning reports of vehicles traveling at high speeds before the collision.

PREVENTING FURTHER TRAGEDIES
As investigations into the Bow crash continue, it serves as a stark reminder of the shared responsibility to maintain safety on the road. Drivers are urged to adhere to speed limits, avoid distractions, and remain vigilant, particularly on major highways where speed and congestion often intersect.

Public safety campaigns, such as New Hampshire’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative, have successfully raised awareness about impaired driving. Similar efforts targeting speeding and aggressive driving could help reduce the frequency of high-speed accidents. Investment in speed enforcement measures and technology, such as speed cameras and dynamic speed displays, may also contribute to saving lives.

Witnesses are encouraged to report details about the crash. Contact Trooper Noah Gooch at [email protected]. Further updates will follow as the investigation unfolds.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
New Hampshire State Police
New Hampshire Department of Safety [Photo]

11/20/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

SCAM ALERT: FRAUDULENT TOLL PAYMENT TEXTS TARGETING E-ZPASS ACCOUNTS
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 20, 2024 08:46
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www.GraniteStateReporter.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE—The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) has alerted residents to a smishing scam targeting individuals with fraudulent text messages claiming to settle outstanding toll balances. These texts, appearing to come from "NH-Pass," attempt to create urgency by warning of potential late fees if the balance isn’t resolved. This is not a legitimate communication. NH E-ZPass will never send text messages requesting toll payments or late fees.

This scam is part of a broader trend known as smishing, a form of phishing that uses text messages to deceive recipients into clicking on malicious links. Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations to exploit individuals’ concerns about accounts or finances. Toll agencies nationwide have reported similar schemes in recent months.

For E-ZPass account holders, there are safe, approved ways to manage accounts, such as the official NH Turnpike E-ZPass website or the NH E-ZPass app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Residents are strongly advised not to click on links in unsolicited messages.

If you receive a fraudulent text message, there are steps you can take to report it. Visit www.ic3.gov to file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, a platform dedicated to tracking and addressing internet crimes. Additionally, you can forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your mobile provider.

Smishing scams are increasingly common. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), text-message-based scams have grown significantly, with nearly 378,000 complaints filed in 2022 alone, representing a nearly 20% increase from the previous year. These scams collectively caused more than $330 million in losses, highlighting the need for vigilance.

To avoid falling victim to smishing scams, consider these tips:

Verify the Source: Always confirm the legitimacy of messages by contacting the organization directly through their official website or phone number.

Avoid Clicking Links: Do not click on links in unsolicited texts or emails.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Use two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts to add an extra layer of security.

Be Wary of Urgent Requests: Scammers often use urgency to pressure individuals into acting quickly. Take a moment to verify before responding.

Use Security Tools: Install and maintain up-to-date antivirus software and spam filters on your devices.

By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from smishing scams and ensure that cybercriminals don’t exploit their trust. This is about safeguarding personal information and recognizing the signs of fraudulent activity before it’s too late.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
NH Department of Transportation

11/20/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

UNDERAGE S*X TRAFFICKING: STING OPERATION LEADS TO ARRESTS
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 20, 2024 08:36
[email protected]
www.GraniteStateReporter.com

MANCHESTER, New Hampshire—In a critical step toward addressing the scourge of child exploitation, federal and local law enforcement announced charges against five men for attempted s*x trafficking of a minor. The proactive operation, led by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Manchester Police Department and other agencies, underscores the commitment to protecting children and holding offenders accountable.

Over two days in November, law enforcement posted an advertisement on a website commonly used for commercial s*x acts. The advertisement depicted two fictitious minors and provided a contact number. Each defendant responded to the ad and arrived at a Manchester hotel to engage in s*x trafficking. Once there, they met with undercover agents, leading to their arrests.

The individuals charged include:

Stacey Ray Lancaster, 46, Hudson, New Hampshire. A teacher and JROTC leader at Manchester West High School, Lancaster was arrested on November 14, 2024. He faces allegations of responding to the advertisement while at school and is currently under home confinement pending trial.

Arthur Picanco, 42, Bradford, Massachusetts.

Ozeias Luiz Guilherme, 38, Haverhill, Massachusetts.

Sharath Chandra Bollu, 23, Chelmsford, Massachusetts.

Koteshwara Raju Jonnagodda, 24, Lowell, Massachusetts.

All defendants are in federal custody and awaiting trial.

This case was brought under Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in 2006 to combat child exploitation. Since its inception, Project Safe Childhood has harnessed the resources of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate offenders, rescue victims, and prosecute crimes involving the exploitation of children. In 2023 alone, the initiative led to over 2,200 arrests and the identification of more than 1,400 victims across the country.

The proactive nature of this operation is essential in addressing a growing crisis. Over 29.3 million reports of suspected child exploitation were made in 2022, a dramatic increase from previous years. Collaborative efforts like this operation are vital in identifying perpetrators before actual harm is inflicted on children.

It’s important to note that these charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This case highlights not only the importance of law enforcement vigilance but also the role communities play in addressing these heinous crimes. Project Safe Childhood remains a cornerstone in these efforts, fostering collaboration to ensure that no child suffers from exploitation or abuse.

Visit www.justice.gov/psc for more information on Project Safe Childhood.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
U.S. Department of Justice
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Hampshire

11/19/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

CHILD ENDANGERMENT AND ASSAULT: KINGSTON TEACHER ARRESTED
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 19, 2024 15:35
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www.GraniteStateReporter.com

KINGSTON, New Hampshire—The Kingston Police Department, in partnership with the Sanborn Regional School District, has launched an investigation into allegations of physical abuse involving a teacher at Bakie Elementary School. This case was brought to light on October 28, 2024, when both the school district and the New Hampshire Division for Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) alerted authorities to possible misconduct.

Following a thorough investigation led by Detective Gina Whitford and School Resource Officer Patrick Schiavone, evidence was gathered to support an arrest warrant for Aimee Ragonese, a 37-year-old special education teacher from Raymond, New Hampshire. Ragonese voluntarily surrendered to the Kingston Police Department and now faces seven counts of endangering the welfare of a child and four counts of simple assault. The alleged victims are children between the ages of 6 and 9.

This case is not an isolated incident. In New Hampshire and across the country, there have been troubling instances where trusted individuals in positions of authority have abused their power, leading to serious harm. Roughly 10% of students nationwide report experiencing some form of educator misconduct during their K-12 years. While most educators are dedicated professionals committed to the well-being of their students, it’s critical to address these violations to ensure the safety and trust of all children.

In recent years, New Hampshire has seen other high-profile cases of abuse in educational settings. A teacher in Salem was convicted of assaulting a student in 2022, while a staff member in Nashua faced charges of inappropriate conduct in 2023. Vigilance, accountability, and robust protection measures within schools are essential in keeping New Hampshire's children safe.

Child abuse carries profound consequences. Children who experience abuse are at greater risk of physical and emotional health challenges throughout their lives. This makes it imperative for communities to act quickly when allegations arise, ensuring investigations are thorough and justice is served.

The Kingston Police Department’s actions, in coordination with the Sanborn Regional School District, reflect the critical role of law enforcement and school officials in safeguarding children. The case remains under investigation, with a court date for Ragonese scheduled for January 28, 2025, at Brentwood Circuit Court.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
Kingston, NH Police Department
U.S. Department of Education
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

11/19/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

CONTAMINATED CARROTS: RECALLED DUE TO E. COLI OUTBREAK
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 19, 2024 12:15
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www.GraniteStateReporter.com

CONCORD, New Hampshire–The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has issued a vital advisory for consumers regarding a recall of organic and whole baby carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms. Sold under familiar brand names like "365", "Good & Gather", "Nature’s Promise", and "Trader Joe’s", these products have been linked to a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121:H19. This strain of E. coli is a serious public health concern.

Consumers are encouraged to visit https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o121h19-organic-carrots-november-2024 for detailed information on the recall, including the full list of affected products distributed nationwide. While most retailers have likely removed these items from shelves, they may still be sitting in refrigerators or freezers at home.

Consumers are urged to take immediate precautions: dispose of any recalled products and thoroughly sanitize any surfaces they’ve contacted. As Iain Watt, Director of the DHHS Division of Public Health Services, explained, “Foods that are contaminated may not look, smell, or taste any different, so there’s no way to tell if E. coli is present.”

Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is particularly concerning due to its ability to cause severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, face heightened risks of severe illness.

This recall is shines a light on the broader issue of food safety and the interconnectedness of our food supply. Nearly 48 million Americans experience foodborne illness annually, resulting in over 125,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is among the most dangerous pathogens tracked by health agencies.

Granite Staters with concerns about potential E. coli infection should contact their healthcare provider promptly. Individuals diagnosed with an illness tied to E. coli O121:H19 are encouraged to reach out to DHHS at 603-271-4496 to assist in tracking and mitigating this outbreak.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
NH Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

11/16/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

MISPLACED PRIORITIES: INVESTMENT IN ARTIFACTS AND DOGS WHILE OUTDOOR RESIDENTS ARE IGNORED
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 16, 2024 12:09
[email protected]
www.GraniteStateReporter.com

LITTLETON, New Hampshire—A town celebrated for its picturesque charm, is quietly grappling with a troubling question: whose voices matter most? While the Board of Selectmen (BOS) enthusiastically allocates resources for projects like restoring a historic fire engine or developing a dog park, outdoor residents are left without basic necessities. These disparities reveal more than just fiscal decisions—they highlight a human cost paid by the town’s most vulnerable, as taxpayer dollars flow to inanimate symbols of heritage while human beings go unsupported.

A TALE OF TWO DISCUSSIONS
At the October 28 BOS meeting, two topics dominated the agenda: the antique fire engine and the proposed dog park, drawing significant attention and engagement from the Board.

BOS members supported a $40,000 proposal to restore “Bertha” and approved plans to house the engine in a heated facility to preserve it through the winter. Their willingness to invest public funds and resources in a historical artifact underscores their prioritization of legacy projects over immediate human needs.

The Dog Park Committee’s proposal sparked extended discussion, with BOS members signaling continued interest and scheduling follow-up conversations to explore land use and funding opportunities. The town had already allocated funds from a dog license fee increase to support the park’s development.

Meanwhile, outdoor residents received no such engagement or follow-up. Despite testimony highlighting life-threatening safety concerns and basic needs, the BOS has consistently refused to allocate even a modest portion of taxpayer funds to provide a trash receptacle or bathroom for outdoor residents. This clear and alarming contrast speaks volumes about the town’s priorities.

THE HUMAN COST
Outdoor residents live with daily challenges that transcend inconvenience—they face ongoing threats to their safety, health, and dignity. At the October 28 meeting, one resident detailed harrowing accounts of physical attacks, vandalism, and premeditated harassment, all compounded by a lack of police follow-up. Yet, these urgent issues drew only fleeting acknowledgment from the BOS.

The human cost of inaction is clear.

Health Risks: Without access to a bathroom, outdoor residents face unsanitary conditions that can lead to illness and environmental degradation.

Safety Concerns: Physical attacks, theft, and other threats go unresolved as law enforcement fails to follow through on reports.

Emotional Toll: Neglect from town leadership fosters a sense of abandonment, exacerbating feelings of alienation among outdoor residents.

While $0 in taxpayer contributions are directed toward addressing these issues, the BOS approved spending thousands of dollars to keep an antique fire engine warm through the winter—a poignant reminder of whose comfort and preservation are prioritized.

SELECTIVE ENGAGEMENT AND SILENCE
The disparity in the BOS’s approach to these topics is glaring. The antique fire engine and dog park drew robust discussions, follow-up actions, and enthusiastic support. These projects were framed as investments in the community’s future and heritage.
Outdoor residents’ needs, however, were met with mostly silence. While Selectman Kerri Harrington has voiced concern and support, her efforts are the exception. Linda MacNeil and Roger Emerson have shown no willingness to consider even modest, cost-effective measures to support these residents.

Littleton’s leadership is at a crossroads. The town cannot continue to allocate resources for historical preservation and recreational amenities while ignoring the urgent needs of its residents. Public funds must reflect public responsibility, and no resident should be left without basic dignity and safety.

Will Littleton’s leaders rise to meet this challenge, or will they continue to warm antique fire engines while leaving residents out in the cold?

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Source:
Littleton BOS Meeting Minutes - 10/28/2024

11/14/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

VETTING THE FACTS – SHARED RESPONSIBILITY OF INFORMED READERSHIP
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 14, 2024 14:48
[email protected]
www.GraniteStateReporter.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE—Granite State Reporter stands committed to accountability and thorough investigative reporting, yet the final responsibility for discerning fact from opinion and interpreting data rests with you, the reader. While Granite State Reporter is dedicated to uncovering truths in government, civil rights, environmental protection, and public health, ultimately the invitation is presented for you to engage critically with the information provided. Every article undergoes a meticulous vetting process to ensure that you receive fact-based, carefully researched information grounded in verified sources.

To further transparency in reporting, Granite State Reporter includes sources at the end of each article, enabling you to examine the evidence behind each finding and approach news consumption and sharing thoughtfully. Granite State Reporter’s mission centers on addressing the issues that shape New Hampshire’s future—whether it’s government accountability, the protection of civil liberties, or environmental policies that preserve the state’s landscapes. Each story is crafted to empower you by laying out facts while recognizing that journalism, by nature, exists within a framework.

RESPONSIBLE READERSHIP: PARTNERING IN TRUTH-SEEKING
When an article reaches the public, the process of vetting information doesn’t end; it continues in partnership with you. Granite State Reporter encourages you to approach articles with a commitment to verifying and thoughtfully engaging with the information provided. Truth in journalism depends not only on careful research and evidence but also on a community of readers willing to question, reflect, and seek deeper understanding.

LOOKING BEYOND THE SURFACE: DISCERNING THE CORE OF EVERY ISSUE
Each article represents a thoughtful synthesis of facts, investigations, and perspectives. Responsible readership means understanding the broader context and acknowledging potential biases—both inherent in journalism and within broader societal conversations. An informed reader engages with sources, considers the wider implications of the issues discussed, and recognizes that, while rooted in fact, journalism also navigates the complex terrain of human interests, values, and concerns.

READER ACCOUNTABILITY IN AN ERA OF MISINFORMATION
In a time when misinformation is prevalent and headlines often overshadow content, your role has never been more essential. Granite State Reporter encourages you to look beyond headlines, examine each source listed, and actively compare information across credible outlets. A readership that is as vigilant as it is informed strengthens the foundation of truth in public discourse.

By engaging thoughtfully and critically with news, you play a crucial role in fostering a well-informed community that can shape New Hampshire's future for the better.

A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING, NOT CONCLUSION
Granite State Reporter’s mission aligns with an investigative approach focused on accountability in government, civil rights, environmental protection, and public health. This stance serves as a framework for you to access and interpret the information, rather than as a conclusion on any issue. Ultimately, you hold the power to form your opinions.

COMMITMENT TO TRUTH: JOIN THE EFFORT
Granite State Reporter remains committed to delivering comprehensive, fact-based reporting to the people of New Hampshire. By approaching each story with a critical and questioning eye, you actively participate in the truth-seeking process. Through engaged readership and responsible journalism, the commitment to accuracy, transparency, and integrity is strengthened across the Granite State.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

11/14/2024

GRANITE STATE REPORTER
Delivering Truth with Integrity Across New Hampshire

GRANITE STATE REPORTER EXCLUSIVE: MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS REVEALS CRITICAL FLAWS IN POLICE RESPONSE SYSTEM
Granite State Reporter | Published: November 14, 2024 13:28
[email protected]
www.GraniteStateReporter.com

PLYMOUTH, New Hampshire—The tragic death of 58-year-old Kevin Steinfeldt in Plymouth, New Hampshire, has reignited pressing concerns about law enforcement’s approach to mental health crises. According to the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office, Steinfeldt died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, while being hit by gunfire from responding officers.

New Hampshire lacks a fully integrated approach to mental health crisis response. As authorities investigate this officer-involved shooting, Granite State Reporter is compelled to ask: How many more Granite Staters in crisis must face violence rather than intervention, and why has the state failed to implement safer, more effective practices?

A CRISIS IGNORED: THE REALITY OF POLICE RESPONSES IN MENTAL HEALTH CASES
Statistics paint a grim picture of the intersection between mental health and police force in New Hampshire. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness New Hampshire (NAMI NH), 60% of police shootings in the state involve individuals with known mental health issues. Further, from 1999 to 2017, 45% of New Hampshire’s officer-involved shootings involved individuals with documented mental health conditions. These are not isolated incidents; they’re part of a pattern revealing systemic failings in addressing mental health concerns.

The New Hampshire response often defaults to law enforcement, and yet the reality is stark: police officers, despite recent efforts, are not fully trained mental health professionals. When individuals in crisis meet armed officers instead of trained interventionists, the risk of deadly escalation remains high. New Hampshire’s response has largely been reactive rather than proactive—a pattern Granite State Reporter cannot ignore.

CRISIS INTERVENTION TRAINING: A HALF MEASURE WITHOUT FULL IMPLEMENTATION
New Hampshire has taken some steps to address this glaring issue. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program, intended to equip officers with skills to de-escalate mental health crises, has trained 471 police officers across the state as of early 2023. However, with over 2,900 sworn officers in New Hampshire, this represents a small fraction of law enforcement personnel.

Relying on limited CIT training while failing to make it universal or provide mental health crisis teams across the state falls short of what Granite Staters deserve. Training some officers is not enough when the state continues to deploy armed officers as the primary responders to those in crisis. It’s a band-aid approach, not a solution—and one that has already shown its tragic consequences.

WHERE ACCOUNTABILITY IS NEEDED: TRAINING, RESOURCES, AND TRUE REFORM
Granite State Reporter calls for hardline accountability from state leadership, particularly Governor Sununu and the New Hampshire legislature. It’s time for New Hampshire to fully fund and deploy mental health crisis teams as primary responders in appropriate situations, instead of relying on the police. Dedicated crisis teams would reduce the risk of deadly escalation and allow trained mental health professionals to address crises without defaulting to lethal force.

The state must mandate CIT training for all officers and fund it accordingly. The piecemeal approach of training less than 20% of the state’s officers is inadequate and, frankly, irresponsible. The cost of inaction isn’t measured in dollars but in human lives.

GRANITE STATERS DESERVE MORE THAN WORDS
New Hampshire residents deserve a system that truly protects the vulnerable, not one that routinely puts individuals in crisis at further risk. Lawmakers and officials can no longer hide behind empty rhetoric. The crisis is real, and so are the solutions.

With proper funding, training, and an unwavering commitment to accountability, New Hampshire can turn the tide on its shameful record of police responses to mental health crises. Until then, Granite State Reporter will continue to push for the change that New Hampshire so desperately needs.

COPYRIGHT © 2024 GRANITE STATE REPORTER

Sources:
NH Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General
National Alliance on Mental Illness New Hampshire (NAMI NH)
New Hampshire Department of Justice
WMUR News
New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR)

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