FARMINGTON — Deputies from Franklin and Somerset counties were sworn in Thursday in a joint ceremony performed by Dedimus Justices Elaine Fitch from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Karen Morrill of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.

Every three years, sheriff’s offices across the state have to swear in their full-time deputies, Franklin County Sheriff Scott Nichols Sr. said. 

Franklin County deputies were sworn in as Franklin County and Somerset County deputies, while Somerset County deputies were sworn in as Franklin County deputies.

The deputies are able to cover each county if they are needed to assist or cover an incident.

Cruisers from both agencies were lined up on opposite sides between the Franklin County Regional Communications Center and the sheriff’s building for inspection.

Nichols, Somerset County Sheriff Dale Lancaster, and other ranking officers conducted the inspections before they were issued their certifications.

“I am very proud of every single one of you,” Nichols said.

Nichols and Lancaster agreed that the partnership has worked out well.

Lancaster said that an incoming Somerset County commissioner told him his constituents are “extremely happy we are working together.”

Somerset County crosses into Franklin County on Route 27 in the northern section of New Portland between the towns of New Vineyard and Kingfield. 

dperry@sunjournal.com