Maine Marine Patrol is getting a new leader

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - The Maine Marine Patrol has a new leader.

Officials say Lt. Jay Carroll, a 23-year veteran, will begin his duties on Monday after a promotion to colonel. He’ll replace Col. Jon Cornish, who’s retiring on April 5.

Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher said Carroll is a good communicator and problem solver who led the region from Searsport to the Canadian border through periods of growth in the lobster and elvers industry.

Carroll has had a lifelong connection to Marine Patrol. His father, uncle and cousin all served as Marine Patrol lieutenants.