Rockland Woman’s Rampage Raises Mental Health Resource Concerns

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A Night of Chaos on the Water

ROCKLAND -- In a bizarre turn of events, Rockland police apprehended 30-year-old Sierra McDonald late Monday night after she was spotted in a stolen canoe just off shore from the public boat launch. The incident took a dramatic twist when McDonald, after being seen by authorities, stripped off her clothes, jumped into the water, and climbed onto a lobster fishing boat, attempting to untie it.

Protective Custody Challenges

“Our default for taking someone into protective custody is bringing them to the nearest medical facility by statute," explained Rockland Deputy Police Chief Alex Gaylor. “Unfortunately, we learned that she was being released very quickly from the hospital. So, at that point, we didn’t have any other choice for public safety-wise but to take her into custody.”

Significant Damage Discovered

The situation escalated further on Tuesday morning when police discovered extensive damage to the windows of local businesses and vehicles, totaling approximately $10,000. This trail of destruction was found next door to the Coastal Children's Museum, causing additional concern for the community.

“There was a bunch of rocks like strewn all over the ground," said Lilly Hart of the Coastal Children's Museum. “I was worried because this is a children’s museum and we want to make sure that it’s a safe and fun place for families to come with their kids.”

The Need for Mental Health Resources

The Rockland Police Department, despite their training, does not have a mental health liaison. They collaborate with Volunteers of America for case management work, highlighting the need for more resources to handle situations involving mental health issues.

“Mental health is a factor in many of the calls we respond to, and we need more resources for these situations," stated Gaylor. “When there’s no other option, they end up getting charged criminally or going to jail when there might be a better alternative like some sort of secure mental health facility.”

The nearest facility, Riverview Psychiatric Center, is an hour away in Augusta. “I kind of wish she had been able to stay where she was, in terms of getting help medically," Gaylor added.

Charges and Future Proceedings

Sierra McDonald now faces charges of theft and aggravated criminal mischief, among other charges. The case underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety and mental health needs, a growing concern for law enforcement agencies across the country.

Attribution source: Wgme.com