When law enforcement officers interact with participants of the State of Maine Address Confidentiality Program, what must they do?

Law enforcement officers must use the address assigned by the State of Maine Address Confidentiality Program on all forms to ensure the privacy and safety of program participants. This program is designed to protect the addresses of individuals who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or similar concerns. By using the assigned address, law enforcement officials help maintain the confidentiality of the participant’s actual location, which is crucial for their protection.

This requirement is significant because it recognizes the vulnerable position of program participants and prioritizes their safety over other considerations. Ensuring the proper use of assigned addresses also promotes consistency within the legal and law enforcement processes, helping to prevent unintentional disclosures that could jeopardize participant safety.